How NOT to Sell Your Home for the Most Money

The sign is up and the lockbox is on, but is your home really ready to be shown to perspective buyers? You’ve updated the kitchen, looked over the comps, and are eager to sell, but could hair on your bathroom floor discourage a sale?  YES!

I was recently showing homes in Northern Virginia to a nice couple who are relocating to the area.  The homes were all fairly similar in age and price, but the one they really liked was unclean, and it turned them off enough that they chose not to make an offer, opting for another home instead.

What kind of reaction do you think dirty homes get compared to clean ones? It doesn’t matter if your kitchen is gorgeously updated with stainless steel appliances and the finest granite.  If there are grungy pots and pans on that new high end stove, the buyer’s will be grossed out.  If there are hairs on the bathroom floor they won’t notice the expensive new vanity you just purchased.  This may not make logical sense, but it’s true.  People notice almost everything negative when looking at homes, making it easy to overlook all the positive stuff!

If you’re looking to sell your home for the most money possible, then it needs to be pristine!  It’s really very simple, and costs nothing more than some elbow grease.  Here are a few tips:

·         Keep all glass and windows clean and smudge free

·         Clean and vacuum carpets

·         Sweep floors

·         Pick up toys from the yard

·         Keep entrance walkway clean of debris such as leaves or dirt

·         Dust, dust, dust!

·         Make your beds

·         Flush and put the toilet seat down (I can’t believe I need to tell people this)

·         Thoroughly clean kitchen - stove, oven, sink, counters, fridge

·         If applicable, clean litter boxes

Other things to do before your home is shown are: turn on all the lights, open the blinds or drapes, light / distribute some candles and put on some soothing music so the house isn’t completely quiet.  With these tips, some luck, and a great realtor, you’re sure to have an edge on the competition!

As always, contact me any time with your questions or Real Estate needs. I’d love to assist you!