Make a good first impression
“Buyers decide in the first 8 seconds of seeing a home if they are interested in buying it. Get out of your car, walk in their shoes, and see what they see within the first 8 seconds.” — Barbara Corcoran
Most buyers make up their minds quickly, so a good first impression is essential. Improve your curb appeal in simple ways — pressure-wash the deck, add some potted plants to make the front warm and welcoming. Mowing the lawn and clearing snow also improves curb appeal and shows buyers the house is well cared for.
Have everything ready for easy access
Look at how easy it is to access your house, back yard, shed, and so on. Do you have keys to all the locks? Are there rusty bolts to replace or locks that jam? You don’t want a buyer wondering what’s in the shed they couldn’t get into, or feeling like they spent more time getting into the house than looking around it — especially when it’s cold and windy out.
Rejuvenate your entrance
The entrance is another great place to make an impression. Remove out-of-season coats and boots to clear space and make the area feel larger — my stager always suggests packing up half of what’s in the closet, since you’re likely packing to move anyway. If the space allows, add a small bench and some fresh flowers.
Declutter
When your house is priced right and marketed well, you’ll likely have multiple showings. Decluttering keeps your house in a state that’s always ready to show. Consider removing half the items in your house, including personal items, and putting them in storage — it makes it easier for buyers to picture themselves living there. Declutter and organize closets to make them appear larger, and highlight your storage space.
Clean
This is a great time for a deep clean. Go room by room and make each space as clean as you can before moving on. Time spent cleaning is probably the most valuable use of your prep time — everyone appreciates a clean home.
Paint
Paint is an inexpensive way to freshen up your home. A fresh, neutral coat brings life to the space and appeals to a wider audience. Consult your REALTOR® before choosing colours — they can advise on specific choices.
Complete minor repairs
That missing baseboard you never got to, or the wobbly toilet seat — now’s the time. These details may seem inconsequential, but buyers are discerning, and fixing them goes a long way.
Consider a pre-inspection
Getting your home pre-inspected can help you get ahead of buyers by surfacing potential issues. You can then fix them or disclose them before listing, so buyers know the list price reflects them. Ask your REALTOR® whether this is a good option for you.
Focus on kitchens and bathrooms
These two rooms deserve special attention. The kitchen is the heart of the home and the room buyers focus on most — declutter countertops and keep the sink and appliances clean. Use a stainless-steel cleaner to make appliances sparkle. If cabinets look dated, painting them can be an inexpensive update.
If you’re thinking of selling, get in touch and we can set up a no-obligation meeting to discuss the best way forward.
