Sell A Home

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If you are planning to sell your home, try to see it through the eyes of a potential buyer. Imagine that you’re seeing it for the first time. You may spot some problems that you have been overlooking. You might want to refer to the checklist in Assess the Physical Condition of a Home to find out which cleaning, replacing and repairing tasks will help sell your home quickly. Also, ask a real estate agent for advice on what needs to be done to make the house attractive to the potential buyers. Ask the realtor where it is best to invest your time and money. Like for example, will it be worth your money to give the walls a fresh coat of paint throughout the house? Or to replace an outdated, undersized water heater. Remember to tackle the most pressing problems first. But be wary of over-investing in upgrading the house. For example, it is very unlikely you will recoup the cost of a remodeled bathroom or new kitchen cabinets. Though such improvements may help your home sell faster, if not for more money.

Help potential buyers imagine themselves living in your house by packing away your personalized items like doormats, plaques and even towels. Use only neutral colors if the walls need painting. Remove all personal collections and knickknacks because these are distracting to those who are walking through the rooms. The first impressions should be positive so make sure to repaint the front door and polish the knocker and lock set.

Consider having your home inspected because it may be required by law anyway. In fact you could face a lawsuit if you fail to fix or at least disclose a problem with your house, such as high levels of radon or chronic basement flooding. An inspector will certainly give you a peace of mind and it may also enable you to ask for a higher price for the house.