In an ideal world, your home would sell the same week that it is listed on the local real estate market, but this is not an ideal world. The question arises, "how do I ensure that my home is competitive?" There are a few basic things that one needs to do to make sure their home gets noticed first, gets viewed first, and logically, sells first. These things are a combination of enhancing the homes's curb appeal and interior detail, plus a few thoughtful touches that make the viewing experience more enjoyable for prospective buyers.
We asked Jill Dean-Rigsbee, the Founder of NC ProRealtyGroup in the Raleigh, NC area, her thoughts and here’s what she said; “There are a few basic things that you need to do to make sure your home gets noticed first, gets viewed first, and of course, sells first. Here are some of the tips we share with our homeowners when they are ready to go on the market.”
4 Tips from NC Pro Realty Group for How to Remain Competitive
- Take a Good Look at the Exterior. Really look at your homes' exterior. Take pictures so it’s easier to compare. Now compare that to photos of other listed homes from the same area. Which home would you want to look at first strictly on a visual basis? If it is not your home, you have some work to do. It's hard to look at your home with a detached eye, but it is necessary. Set aside the years of good memories and try to "be the buyer," note any small details that need fixing or a cosmetic touch up and get those done.
- Turn Your Attention to the Inside. Most homes are a bit too cluttered to show off the details of a home's interior. This is not to say that a home is messy, it's just "lived in." Try to minimize the amount of furniture and "stuff" in your home. If necessary, remove some things and put them in storage. You are going to be moving soon anyway, why not get a head start on it? The more "open" your home looks and feels, the better your showings will be. Remember to clean off all counters and clean your closets. Buyers are nosy and will open all the closets, cabinets and cupboards to ensure there is enough room for their things. Wouldn't you?
- Ensure That Your Home is Welcoming When People Come to View It. Keep the temperature warm if it is cold outside, and cool if it is hot. It will probably be necessary to tidy up and clean your home daily to maintain its pristine condition. Also, little things like pleasant aromas can help people to feel more at home. Cinnamon, apple pie or chocolate chip cookies are very comforting scents. But if you utilize these, make sure there are some snacks available as viewers might get hungry!
- Call your BFF to Come Over for an Inspection. We all have that one friend who will be painfully honest. They’re awesome, especially for this! Ask them to come over to scrutinize your home to see if it’s decluttered, depersonalized and deliciously available for sale!
Most importantly, there is no definitive wrong way to sell your home. Follow these tips and be open to what the people who see your home have to say. And always remember, everyone has different taste. The new owners might not like your favorite part of the house and that's ok. It's their home now and it's going to give them as many years of happiness as you had.
