One of the most common issues that realtors and their clients face is the valuation of a property for resale when the grounds and home are full of old clutter, construction garbage, and other remnants of prior residents. Many prospective buyers will simply walk away if this issue isn’t dealt with before listing, but doing this on a budget can be a problem.
Auctioning
In some cases, depending on the type of clutter in the home or garage, paying a consignment store or auction hall to take the lot off your hands is a good way to empty out a large space quickly. This is particularly useful when the clutter involves large pieces of furniture or antiques. Not only does it empty the space, but you may also earn some residual income based on how much the items sell at auction.
Car Buyers
Another option is to contact an unwanted car buyer. Many metal recyclers actively seek out non-drivable cars to recycle or sell for parts. This tip will again add money to your black column, as the market price for steel will be paid by the pound hauled off your land. If there were any fluid spills (gasoline, oil, or other fluids), the next step will be digging out the affected dirt and carting it off to prevent ground contamination, as well as backfilling the hole with clean dirt.
Landscaping
Then, before you list and after you’ve hauled out the sheds and the cars, it might be a good investment to have a professional landscaper come and detail your property. Having a licensed crew getting rid of dead trees and shrubs, as well as shoring up the sightline with freshened mulch and removing old debris and leaves is worth every penny to have your property’s first impression be a memorable one.
Home Staging
Last, partner with your realtor to have your home’s interior staged for showing. Once you have emptied out your personal belongings, the house becomes a blank canvas. A savvy stager can add dozens of offers onto your listing by using professionally designed leased furniture and details that will help your prospective buyers envision life in the space. Staged homes sell nearly three times as quickly, and ensure you receive quality offers near to or over the asking price. When you are ready to clean up in the real estate marketplace, be sure to rely on professionals that can help your prepare your property.
