Getting Ready for Showings
First impressions are important.
The exterior sets the tone for what potential buyers expect inside:
- Ensure the entryway is neat and welcoming. If your front door looks aged or faded, consider a fresh coat of paint or a replacement. Brighten up shutters, trims, and other exterior features with a touch-up. Introduce lively plants and spread new mulch for a refreshed look. Highlight the Best Features.
Living in a home and showcasing it for sale are distinct experiences. View your home with a new lens and emphasize its standout features:
- Maintain clean windows and floors. Update any outdated wallpaper and secure any peeling sections. Address any wear and tear on woodwork. Neutral-colored walls appear more appealing; consider repainting any vibrant or marked walls. Consider steam cleaning or replacing carpets if they’re stained or aged. Fix minor issues like loose handles, jammed doors or windows, and malfunctioning light switches. Ensure bathrooms are sealed and caulked where needed.
When showcasing, ensure:
- Curtains and drapes are open to let in natural light. Declutter spaces like attics, basements, and closets to emphasize roominess. Consider off-site storage or a yard sale for surplus items. Organize each room, removing surplus furniture. Bathrooms should have fresh towels and pleasant scents. Illuminate Your Home’s Charm.
Effective lighting can set the mood and emphasize your home’s best features:
- Avoid harsh overhead lights that can make spaces appear stark. Use lamps creatively to make small rooms feel spacious and large rooms feel cozy. Highlight cozy corners of your home, like a reading nook by the fireplace or a breakfast nook.
Indoors:
- Declutter furniture surfaces. Limit decorative items to groups of 1, 3, or 5. Keep kitchen counters clutter-free. If you haven’t used an item in a while, store it. A tidy fridge front helps buyers visualize their items there. In bathrooms, minimize counter items. Store only essential personal care products. Stick to a consistent towel color scheme. Reposition or reduce furniture if rooms feel cramped. Reorganize wall hangings or art. Repair and repaint walls if needed. Inspect each room. Freshen up any space that needs it, from painting to window cleaning. Keep specific lights on during the day. Illuminate all areas during viewings. Soft background music can set a pleasant ambiance. Lockboxes are crucial: “If it’s not accessible, it won’t be shown.”
Outdoors:
- Trim plants to showcase architectural details. Clear the home’s surroundings of trash, unused materials, and other debris. Inspect gutters and roofs for issues and ensure they’re clean. Maintain your garden—trim overgrown plants, remove obstructions from windows, and remember, plants grow quickly! Freshly mow and fertilize the lawn. Remove any dead vegetation. De-clutter patios or decks. Store small items in the garage. Assess the home’s exterior paint, especially the front door and trims. A good first impression is invaluable.
View your home from a buyer’s perspective. Investing time and money in these preparations can yield a quicker sale and a better price.
Quick-Prep for Impromptu Showings:
- Sound: Mute the TV and set the radio to a mellow station.
- Sight: Illuminate the entire house and open blinds and drapes during the day.
- Smell: Warm pastries or add a few vanilla drops to a heated pan for a homely aroma. Kitchen: Clean counters and load dirty dishes into the dishwasher.
- Bathrooms: Tidy counters and ensure toilets are flushed and lids down. Living Areas: Store away magazines, newspapers, and toys. Bedrooms: Neaten beds and store clutter out of sight. Outside: Store away toys and ensure pathways are clear.
- Children & Pets: They can be distracting; it’s best if they’re outdoors during viewings.
- Departure: It’s essential for potential buyers to feel at home. Even if the agent says it’s okay, it’s best to step out. Allow buyers to connect emotionally with the space. At the very least, stay in the backyard or take a short trip.
