Things To Do To Prepare Your Home To Sell
When it comes to selling your home, preparation is key. A well-prepared home can attract more potential buyers, sell faster, and command a higher price. This article will guide you through the essential steps to prepare your home for sale, backed by industry insights and expert advice.
1. Declutter and Depersonalize Your Home
First impressions matter, and a cluttered home can be a major turn-off for potential buyers. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, 93% of agents recommend decluttering before listing a home. This involves removing personal items, excess furniture, and any unnecessary belongings that may make the space feel cramped.
Case Study: The Impact of Decluttering
A 2018 Home Staging Resource study found that 85% of staged homes sold for 6-25% more than unstaged homes. A significant part of staging involves decluttering and depersonalizing the space to allow potential buyers to envision themselves living in the home.
2. Make Necessary Repairs
Small issues like leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or chipped paint can give the impression that the home has not been well-maintained. Addressing these issues before listing can help attract more buyers and potentially increase the selling price.
Statistics: The Value of Home Repairs
According to a 2019 Cost vs. Value report by Remodeling Magazine, minor kitchen remodels can recoup 80.5% of the cost in increased home value. Similarly, replacing a garage door can recoup 97.5% of the cost.
3. Enhance Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers see, so it’s crucial to make it appealing. This can involve landscaping, painting the front door, or even just cleaning the windows.
Example: The Power of First Impressions
A 2016 study by the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics found that homes with high curb appeal sold for 7% more than similar homes with an unattractive exterior. In slower markets, that premium can be as high as 14%.
4. Professional Cleaning and Staging
Professional cleaning and staging can make your home look its best and highlight its most appealing features. Staging involves arranging furniture and decor to showcase the home’s potential.
Case Study: The Impact of Professional Staging
A 2017 National Association of Realtors survey found that 49% of buyers’ agents believe staging affects most buyers’ view of a home. Moreover, 77% said staging made it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their future home.
5. Price It Right
Setting the right price for your home is crucial. If it’s too high, you may not find a buyer; if it’s too low, you could leave money on the table. A real estate agent can provide a comparative market analysis to help set a competitive price.
Statistics: The Importance of Pricing
According to Zillow, homes priced at or slightly below market value are almost 50% more likely to sell within 60 days than those priced 12% or more above market value.
Conclusion
Preparing your home for sale involves several steps, from decluttering and making necessary repairs to enhancing curb appeal and setting the right price. By taking the time to properly prepare your home, you can attract more potential buyers, sell your home faster, and potentially increase the selling price. Remember, the goal is to make potential buyers feel at home and help them envision themselves living in the space.
