Selling your house can be overwhelming—there are so many things you must consider before putting your house on the market. To ensure a successful, stress-free selling process, you may have to prepare your house beforehand. Make sure you don’t neglect any of these major steps to make the process as easy as possible.
Declutter and Deep-Clean
Before you show your house to potential buyers, it’s important to declutter and deep-clean every room. This will make your house appear more spacious and inviting. Start by getting rid of any unnecessary items or furniture that may be taking up space, and consider renting a storage unit if necessary. Then, thoroughly clean your house from top to bottom, including the windows, carpets, and appliances. A clean, clutter-free house will make a great first impression on potential buyers.
Make Necessary Repairs
No one wants to buy a house with broken appliances, leaky faucets, or chipped paint. Before putting your house on the market, take the time to make any necessary repairs. This will not only increase the value of your house but also prevent any issues from arising during the selling process. Buyers can back out at many points during the selling process, and if they discover anything concerning during the home inspection, they can rescind their offer and you’ll be back at square one. Even something as simple as drywall can affect the value of your home in several ways, so make sure everything is up to par before any potential buyers come to visit.
Enhance Curb Appeal
Making a good first impression with your home’s exterior is essential. If the outside of your house looks shabby and unappealing, then potential buyers may pass on it without giving it a chance. Start by mowing the lawn, trimming the bushes, and removing any debris from the yard.
For even more visual appeal, look into adding different flowers and plants. New house numbers or a fresh coat of paint on the front door can also make a big difference. Dress up your home to entice people into stopping by.
Set a Realistic Price
Pricing your house correctly is crucial to attracting potential buyers. Research the housing market in your area and consult with a real estate agent to determine a fair, competitive price for your house. Overpricing may lead to your house sitting on the market for too long, while underselling your home will result in less money in your pocket after the sale.
This is a delicate balancing act that you’ll need to navigate even after listing your home, as the seller will likely negotiate for a lower price. Setting limits and knowing when to compromise is part of the house-selling process.
Knowing what to do before you put your house on the market means taking care of minor details as well as handling some major considerations. Maintaining your home can go a long way, and negotiating is a stressful yet critical part of the home-selling experience. Do everything you can to set yourself up for success.
