First impressions matter – especially when you are hoping to get top dollar for your home. 

If you are getting ready to sell your house, you may be overwhelmed with a long to-do list of items, and not sure where to start. Here are some updates you can do on your own to help get your home ready to sell and attract buyers who are willing to pay top-dollar:

• Exterior:

  • Rent a pressure washer to remove dirt and grime from your siding, roof, and gutters.

  • Paint the front door a bright color that coordinates well with the rest of the house colors.

  • Replace old house numbers and replace any old exterior light bulbs.

  • Add a fresh welcome mat & clean up any overgrown flowerbeds.

  • If your porch, stoop, or patio home has room for furniture, add a few chairs to showcase the expanded outdoor living space.

    
    

• Interior:

  • De-personalize the space to help buyers visualize themselves living in the home.

    • An easy place to start is removing any personal photos (this includes anything hanging on the fridge!). Make sure clothes, and any personal items on bathroom counters are kept out of sight.

  • Remove clutter!

    • Clutter takes up space, and it’s important to maximize all visual living space for potential buyers. This may feel daunting (especially if you have been living in your home for many years) but think of it as a pre-moving task. 

  • Add fresh, neutral paint!

    • A fresh coat of paint can completely change the look and feel of any space. If you have taken down any wall photos during the de-personalize step, this is also a great time to patch any holes and cover the walls with new paint to give the room a fresh feeling.

  • Let the light in.

    • Dark rooms can make a room feel smaller. Make sure you open the blinds, remove any window coverings, and turn on all home lights when you’re getting ready for prospective buyers to tour your home. 

  • Re-arrange furniture.

    • Look at your spaces and remove any obstructive furniture that could get in the way of easy walking paths between each room. Less is more when it comes to making your home feel large. 

Staging a home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Ask your agent for advice as you begin your home selling journey and use the tips above to maximize your time and effort to get top dollar! Once you know you’ve done everything you can – it’s time to sit back, relax, and wait for the right buyer to stop by.