5 Don’ts for Home Sellers
You think your home is pretty amazing and assume it is going to sell quickly. Then, it just sits on the market waiting patiently for someone to give it a second glance. You have even had several open houses. The bids just are not rolling in like you expected. So, where did you go wrong? Well, if any of the “don’ts” on this list are things you are doing (or have done), this is likely the problem. Here is Homes Re-Imagined tips on what to avoid for home sellers.
1. Don’t Go for the “Lived In” Look – You want buyers to be able to easily imagine living there, but that does not mean you go for the “lived in” look. Clutter, unmade beds, toys lying around, etc. are not making it easy for them to imagine living there.
2. Don’t Ignore Curb Appeal – Your schedule is full, you are trying to pack, and you are attempting to buy and sell a home simultaneously. The last thing you feel like doing is yardwork. This is something you can’t neglect. Curb appeal offers the first impression. You may even need to spray your house with a power washer. If the paint is peeling, a fresh coat won’t hurt.
3. Don’t Overlook Repairs – Off-track closet doors, ripped window screens, damaged stairway banisters, and holes in the wall are minor repairs that will have a big impact. When buyers see small repairs have been neglected they will wonder what else you haven’t taken care of.
4. Don’t Forget to Clean and Declutter – Buyers are judging you and your home as soon as they walk through the door. Don’t give them an easy reason to find fault in the property. Deep clean from floor-to-ceiling. This includes blinds, baseboards, shower door tracks, etc. As you are decluttering, only keep out the bare essentials. This also means removing unnecessary furniture, so rooms look larger. You also want to pack away some of your closet, so it looks like you have more space than you need for your wardrobe.
5. Don’t Be a Lost Puppy – When potential buyers are exploring your home the last thing you want to do is follow them around like a lost puppy. Give them space to look around and speak candidly without feeling as though you’re eavesdropping. It is best if you are not even near them.
5. Don’t Ignore Odors – Pets, cigarettes, garbage, etc. will send the buyer running in the opposite direction. Deep clean carpets, furniture, walls, rugs, curtains, etc. If you do have pets get in the habit of sprinkling baking soda on your carpet at night and then vacuum in the morning. This is great for absorbing odors.
As home sellers everyone will tell you things you need to do to sell your home, but few think to fill you in on the things you shouldn’t do. Use this list to avoid these common home sellers’ pitfalls to sell your home faster and for more money.