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Prepare to Sell |
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A house that shows well to prospective buyers will sell faster than one that is cluttered and unkempt, even though both may be structurally well maintained. From experience, REALTORSŪ know that a "well-polished" house appeals to more buyers and will sell faster and usually for a higher price. Buyers tend to feel more comfortable purchasing a well cared for home because they assume that if what they can see is maintained, what they cannot see has probably been maintained also.
How Much You Should Spend
Spend as little money as possible. A brand new roof will impress buyers but they aren't likely to offer enough extra money to pay for it. There is a difference between making minor touch-ups, such as putting new knobs on cabinets and a fresh coat of neutral paint on the walls, and doing extensive and costly renovations such as installing a new kitchen. Your REALTORŪ is familiar with what buyers expect in your neighborhood and can advise you on what improvements should be considered.
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Interior Preparation
- Give every room a thorough cleaning and remove all clutter.This alone can make your house appear bigger and brighter. Some sellers with crowded rooms rent storage garages and move their furniture out, creating a more spacious look.
- Hire a professional cleaning service to clean every few weeks if you are busy elsewhere.
- Repaint dingy, soiled or strongly colored walls with a neutral shade such as off-white or beige. The same neutral theme can be applied to carpets and linoleum.
- Remove less frequently used items from kitchen counter tops, closets and attics. Make these areas much more inviting and spacious. Since you are anticipating a move anyway, hold a garage sale to get rid of unwanted and unused items.
- Check for cracks, leaks and signs of dampness in the attic and basement.
- Repair holes or damage to plaster, wallboard, wallpaper, paint, tiles and cracks.
- Replace broken or cracked windowpanes, moldings and other woodwork.
- Inspect and repair plumbing, heating and cooling systems, and alarm systems.
- Repair dripping faucets, showerheads, and running commodes.
- Buy new towels for the bathroom.
- If necessary, invest in new knobs for kitchen cabinets, new curtains, or a coat of paint.
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