Mentally Prepare for the Move
There is no time like the present. Now is the time to let go of your emotions and begin to see your house as an asset you are selling so you can make the changes necessary to make a quick sale.
De-Personalize
Remember that buyers find it hard to see past personal belongings and it is necessary to pack away family photos, collections and knick knacks that will distract from the beauty of your home. Think of it as early packing. Offering a clean slate to buyers will allow them to picture themselves in the home instead of trying to get past your history there.
De-Clutter!
Clear out everything that is non-essential especially from counters in the kitchen and bathroom. Clutter says no storage". Stay organized and store essentials in a small box in a closet when not in use.
Rearrange Bedroom Closets and Kitchen Cabinets
Buyers will open closets and cabinets so make way for snoopers by organizing everything even behind closed doors such as kitchen cupboards, bathroom vanities and pantries. Organize your wardrobe to show off your taste as well as your closet space!
Rent a Storage Unit
Optimize space by removing any unnecessary pieces of furniture. Edit out anything you dont need and stick to the basics for each room. This lets people see each room is spacious and makes it easy to move around. Use furniture to define spaces such as a dining room, living room, bedrooms, office, etc. so people can envision how to use the room.
Not Included? Replace it!
If you do not intend to include items such as window coverings, built-in appliances or light fixtures, remove them. Dangling stainless steel appliances in front of a buyer who wont be getting them could easily blow a deal. Remove or replace anything you dont intend to sell so there are no misunderstandings.
Fix It
Unless you intend to sell your home as a fixer upper, make sure you make minor repairs for anything that might raise a red flag. Look at details such as replacing cracked floor or counter tiles, patching holes in walls, adjusting leaky faucets, replacing light bulbs and anything else that make your home look unloved.
Neutralize
A neutral palette can do wonders for selling a home. Remove signs of your creativity and personality so people can see beyond bright pink walls and envision how easy it will be to move in. Have fresh towels and a new shower curtain in the bathroom in neutral colors as well. You can also consider using white or neutral solid colored flat sheets to cover older bedspreads and duvets for a fresh, clean look.
Clean!
If youve never hired a maid in your life, now is the time to do it. Professional cleaners will spot the things you no longer see and will wash everything from windows to kitchen appliances and grout in the bathroom and kitchen to floorboards. You can also hire a professional carpet cleaner. You will then just have to worry about a quick vacuum and dust daily. Place air fresheners throughout the home and air out the rooms each morning to keep the home smelling fresh.