Put yourself in the buyer’s shoes. Making a list of your home’s positive features and deciding how to enhance them is a good start.

 

1. Clean up the outside. The front entry is the first impression of your house. Keeping the grass cut, windows clean and attractive landscaping is extremely helpful. A fresh coat of paint on the door and a clean doormat can help create an inviting “first impression”. Curb Appeal!
2. Touch up the interior. Fresh coats of paint and repairing minor infractions make a world of difference. Anything obviously broken gives potential buyers a reason to give a lower offer. And watch where the eye goes. If the eye is drawn to a chipped or cracked wall, fix it!
3. Declutter! This is an absolute MUST. Buyers want to be able to see themselves in the home. So removing personal items as well as decluttering all rooms (including closets and basements) makes a huge impact. It also makes the rooms feel larger and more accommodating.
4. Cleanliness. Your home must be clean before selling – that includes walls, carpets, and bathrooms, everywhere! It gives the impression that it has been well cared for.
5. Neutralizing. Neutral paint and décor creates a home for any lifestyle. This helps buyers see themselves in that space.
6. Special touches. Fresh flowers and an inviting aroma make potential buyers feel welcome.
7. Research! Find out what similar homes in the neighborhood are selling for. Also, estimate your costs to sell your home (advertising, agent and other fees, home fluffing and repairs, moving expenses etc.).
8. Find a good agent. Talk to friends and family to find out their experiences with real estate agents. Try to get references. You can also sell your home privately but make sure you know the policies and procedures before going this route.
9. Be patient!

 

10 Tips for Pet-Owning Sellers

Pet-owning sellers may turn off potential buyers if they don’t keep their best friends out-of-sight during showings. If a dog or cat is around during a showing some buyer either freaks out because they're afraid of or allergic to animals, or they fall in love with the pet and don't pay attention to the house. Here is our list of advice for sellers when showing a house that has a pet:

 

1. Remove photos of pets from the walls, shelves, or refrigerators.
2. Clean food and water bowls regularly, and hide them when not in use.
3. Stash away pet toys, crates, carriers, and leashes.
4. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and wood floors.
5. Keep litter boxes clean and out of sight, and remove signs of doggy potty pads.
6. Open windows to let in fresh air.
7. Neutralize odors with fresh-smelling candles and air sanitizers.
8. Hire professionals to remove unsightly pet stains.
9. Board or crate animals during open houses.
10. Repair visible signs of pet damage, such as scratched walls or floors.