There are a few universal steps that all homeowners should take before putting their property on the market. From cutting the grass to finding a professional realtor who can make finding the right buyer that much easier, there are plenty of ways to increase the market value of a home. Making certain you are able to get top dollar for your home is not something you will want to leave to chance.
Curb Appeal
Failing to tidy up your home’s exterior can be nothing short of a disaster. From the photograph used when listing your home to the first impression a potential buyer’s are likely to form, taking steps to improve your home’s exterior appearance can really pay off. Investing in a few cosmetic improvements or landscaping upgrades can help to ensure a quick and successful sale.
Maintenance and Upkeep
While there are always buyers who are seeking a fixer-upper, not everyone is in the market for a project home. Even seemingly minor maintenance issues can be a serious liability, especially when they suggest that basic upkeep of the property has been neglected. Repairing missing shingles, touching up the paint or investing in replacement doors and windows that may be showing signs of wear would be in your best interest. These types of repairs or replacements should be left to professional to ensure that everything is done in the right way. By getting the maintenance done by a professional, you can ensure that your home looks good and buyers will appreciate the extra effort.
Creating a Sustainable Household
There has never been a better time to go green. Water and air filtration systems, home-solar installations, and other upgrades that are designed to promote sustainable living may prove to be quite popular with potential buyers. Looking at subsidies available in your area or finding inexpensive ways to make your home more energy efficient could be great ways to avoid spending too much on these types of upgrades. Whatever sustainability upgrades you do for your home, make sure to inform your realtor so they can market them properly.
Seek Professional Assistance
Trying to schedule a tour, manage an open house, or field the type of questions that many would-be buyers are likely to ask can prove to be a bigger challenge than you might have been expecting. Being objective about any issues our homes may have is also hard. Find a pro-Home Stager to assist you in getting the proper guidance to ensure your house is prepared for the target buyer. Even in our current market, preparation = more money for you. The guidance, suggestions and services that a real-estate professional is able to offer can often be a key asset. Seeking out assistance from a qualified professional could end up making a world of difference in your selling experience and help you net the most in the sale.
Not being able to find a buyer who is willing to meet your asking price means that your house could end up sitting on the market for months. A few simple upgrades, the right cosmetic improvements, or the assistance and resources of a professional realtor can make it much easier to increase the value of your home and to ensure a successful sale.
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.