10 Tips on Getting Your Home Ready to Sell

1 - Clean it Up

Make sure your house is not only clean, but tidy as well. Pay attention to the details like the tile grout, baseboards, blinds etc. You want buyers to know that you loved and took care of your home.

2 - Simplify

Simplify and get rid of clutter. For example, even though some of those items on your shelf are sentimental to you, too much of them look like clutter to prospective buyers. Two to three decorations on a table top or shelf are sufficient. Loose papers and small items should be placed in a drawer or container etc.

3 - Fix it Up

Fix any problems, like wall cracks, chipped paint, or missing trim. These are easily noticible, and cause the buyer to wonder if there are other problems with the home.

4 - Don't Forget the Floor

Clean or replace carpets. There's nothing like carpet stains that say "This home has years of wear and tear."

5 - Sense the Smell

Identify any unpleasant smells and remove the source. You may need a friend or neighbor to help with this. Sometimes we get accustomed to the smells of our homes, and need an outsider to let us know if there is a problem. If using air fresheners, make sure they are very subtle, and not overpowering.

6 - Let the Light Shine

Make sure all light fixtures are working, and have working bulbs.

7 - And . . . Let More Light Shine

When you have a showing of your home, open blinds etc. bringing in more light. The light magnifies your space, and makes it more inviting.

8 - Don't forget the Yard

Make sure it is manicured and free of hazards. This is the usually the first and last impression a buyer will have on your home.

9 - Fix the Awkward Space

Staging can be helpful in awkward areas to give people an idea of how they can use the space. Just keep in mind that the idea is to show off the square footage that you have. The more open and spacious your home feels, the better it will sell.

10 - Get Help

Ask for help from an outsider to see if there are any improvements that you can make. Your Real Estate professional is best for this as they have seen thousands of homes, and they have experience in knowing what people are looking for.