6 Things You Can do to Sell Your Home

OR WHAT BUYERS WANT

Amidst blizzards and arctic freezes, the real estate market on the East End of Long Island remains strong in 2015,  with many buyers looking for both primary and secondary homes.. As a potential seller, there are things that make your property more attractive to buyers. Some of these may be out of your control, such as location and views. There are many others, however, that you can do, or have done, to increase both the value and desirability of your home to today's buyers.

 1. Fresh Neutral Paint

The easiest and least expensive quick fix for any home is a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color. Buyers like to envision themselves and their furnishings in a room, so neutralizing your color palette allows them to do this without trying to think around your favorite color. At goodhousekeeping.com there is a great article entitled " The 10 Paint Colors Designers Always Use" - try one or two of these. Painting trim in a crisp shade of white adds a nice, clean accent. Don't forget that there is nothing like a first impression, and while you're at it, put a fresh coat of paint on the front door!

2. Clean and de-clutter

Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to deep clean carpets, windows, flooring, kitchens and bathrooms. Hardwood floors may have to be refinished, if there are significant scratches or the finish is worn. De-clutter the living area as well as the garage and basement, kitchen cabinets, closets and vanities. Pack away all the small items, and minimize your family photos to just a few of your favorites. Always make sure that the counters and vanities are wiped down before you show your home, and odds and ends, such as wet towels and laundry, are out of sight.

3. Make sure everything works 

Have appliances and mechanicals serviced, possibly getting a service contract. Your real estate agent may also be able to offer you a low cost home appliance warranty, which covers your appliances while your home is on the market, and passes on to the buyers a free one year waranty - an enticing reason for them to buy your home!

4. Update, update, update

Across the board, in every price category, the largest trend we are seeing is that buyers want everything done, done, done. Updated baths, kitchens, appliances and countertops will definitely improve the price and appeal of your property. A good read for updating/upgrading is "New Home Trends You Should Know About in 2015" at realestatebook.com.  One notable trend is a move away from granite countertops to more easy-care surfaces such as soapstone, and other manufactured stone surfaces.

5. Curb appeal

Your potential buyer starts looking at the home the moment they get out of the car. Make sure gardens, driveways, walkways and siding look fresh and clean (no mold or mildew). A quick power-washing  can help with this. The main entry should feel warm and inviting - they should WANT to come in!

6. To Stage or not to Stage

Consider having your home professionally staged, especially if it is vacant, or sparsely furnished. Many buyers cannot imagine whether or not a large bed will fit in a room, or where the TV should go unless they see it furnished. Your real estate professional can advise you about whether or not this is the right choice for you.

For other great preparation tips, ask me for a copy of our free brochure “Preparing Your Home for Sale”, and click on my bi-monthly East End Market Activity Report to see the newest listings and recent sales.