You’ve likely heard your real estate agent say it before,
“First impressions are everything.”
So many people believe they know exactly what they need to do to prep their homes for sale, though you might be surprised how many things homeowners end up forgetting.
We’ve talked to plenty of real estate agents who have collectively prepped hundreds of homes for sale to see what tasks homeowners often miss when prepping their home for sale.
Focus On the Front Door
One of the first things that a buyer will see when he or she walks up is the door or entryway. This is where that first impression comes into play and is especially true for private showings. You want your front door area to be in great condition, as your buyer will notice every little imperfection as the real estate agent opens the door.
Here are a few things to look out for:
- Replace Your Welcome Mat: Keep the design simple without any phrases that could be deterring.
- Clean Your Mailbox: If you have a dirty mailbox, clean it with soap and a sponge. If it is dirty or rusty, consider purchasing a new mailbox.
- Apply Fresh Front Door Paint: Some popular choices for new homes include red, black, yellow, and blue.
- Remove Old Screens: To add a feel of modernity to your home, get rid of that old, squeaky storm door.
- Dust Off Cobwebs: Buy yourself and extra-long duster and clean around your sconces.
Pressure Wash the Roof
The elements can destroy your roof, making it look like it is in far worse condition than it actually is. In rainy climates, dirt and mold can stick to the roof, giving prospective buyers the clue that they’ll likely need to replace it soon, even if it has another decade underneath it.
There are a few reasons buyers often avoid homes with roofs that look damaged:
- Roofing Is Epensive: On average, a new roof will cost you $7,000. No one wants to incur a large cost like that right off the bat.
- Bad Roofing Can Cause Closing Delays: A home inspection will typically show any roofing damage, which can delay the sale process.
To avoid these issues, hire a professional roofer to clean your roof with the correct products.
Depersonalize and Declutter
While many sellers tend to do these things around the inside of their homes, they often forget to do it around the outside.
Start by getting rid of anything that is not your landscaping, such as flags, Christmas lights, garden gnomes, signage, etc. This is one of the best ways to increase curb appeal.
Don’t forget the backyard either. Make sure to gather up any storage containers, stray garden tools, wind chimes, bird feeders, or toys from the kids. A clean outdoor area with simple and attractive landscaping will attract more buyers.
Of course, there are plenty of other things you must consider when selling your home. If you have any other questions about the process and what you can do to get the most out of it, make sure to get in contact with us here at National Cash Offer.