I am currently getting a house ready to go on the market, and thought that some of you might be also. From what I understand, the Spring real estate market goes into full swing right after the Super Bowl nachos have been devoured, and the beer bottles have been put out in the recycling bin.
SO, what is it that makes your house more marketable? How does one put their best foot forward? Julia over at Hooked on Houses featured a post recently about the five things that sell a house faster right now. I wasn’t surprised that she mentioned that a new stainless steel fridge can make a whole kitchen feel updated. In addition, your front door should be drop-dead gorgeous…. especially since buyers decide within the first 10-15 seconds of seeing a house whether or not they are interested in buying it.
I think this before and after from a house I staged a few years ago tells the whole story!
Most often when talking about preparing one’s house to be shown, the emphasis is placed on providing a neutral color palette in clean, clutter-free spaces so that your potential buyer can picture themselves and their belongings moving right in.
It is also very important to remember that most of us reach for our wallets (or our pens to sign documents) when we are moved emotionally to do so. Marketers know this, and the most successful retail establishments spend big bucks to pull at your heartstrings & help you imagine a dreamy lifestyle associated with their products.
So, while cleaning up and clearing out is important, remember that the house should still have warmth and style that can speak to the heart of the buyer and inspire them to write an offer on the spot.
