Every Home Can be the "Perfect" Listing

First impressions are the most important and you never get a second chance to make that first impression. Even though I have touched on this topic before, it never hurts to remind sellers again.
Staged homes generally sell faster and at a higher price. Here is a short list of ideas that can help you stae your home for a more rapid sale. In this market you need every advantage:

1. Curb appeal

The front of your home, including the courtyard should be free of clutter. It couldn't hurt to power wash and repaint the exposed wood areas, including the door. If the hardware on the door is worn or tarnished, you should consider replacing it. You might need to trim or remove some of the existing landscaping--plants get tired looking after many years. Remember that within the first 30 seconds, buyers for their first impressions.

2. Unclutter and Unstuff

Overcrowded rooms create negative inspiration. If you plan on discarding furniture, do it before you show your home. Closets should be only half-full and the floor of the closet should be visible. If the closet is crammed full of your stuff, potential buyers will feel there is not enough closet space.

3. Light Rules

Clean windows and screens inside and out and open drapes and blinds. Allow as much natural light as possible. The more light, the more "homey" the room feels.
You may find areas that need repainting. Don't scrimp...repaint the entire room. When selecting a paint color light and natural should be the rule of thumb.

4. Textiles

Put out the GOOD towels, both in the kitchen and baths. Make sure throw rugs and runners are in good shape and clean...particularly in the entry way. Make sure your entry is attractive, bright and clean.

5. USE FLOWERS

I can't emphasize this enough!!! In season or purchased from the florist, real flowers--don't use artificial--add charm and warmth to any room. Pots of seasonal flowers on the front porch and hanging baskets on the back porch bring life and energy to the home. A simple market bouquet can brighten any home. I learned this from experience: When we sold our home in Phoenix in 1991, it was a market like this one. I hired a flower expert and spent $500.00 for pots of brightly colored flowers--We sold within a week and buyers told us it was the FLOWERS.