How to Get Your Home Market Ready

It would be nice if selling your home could just be an idea one day and a done deal the next. But even with the best of agents, putting your home on the market takes some planning and necessary prep work to ensure success.

Make the Minor Repairs – Patch holes in the walls. Replace cracked tiles in floors and countertops. Replace bulbs, screens, windows, doorknobs, and rickety fans. Kitchens can make or break a homebuyer’s decision. Replace or paint cabinets. Replace faucets and upgrade window coverings or antiquated appliances (big or small).

Show Your Yard Some TLC – Curb appeal is huge when selling your home. Prospective buyers should be interested from the minute they drive up. If it’s not feasible to paint the entire home, consider painting just the trim. Get the windows cleaned. Trim the hedges and trees, rake, and weed.

Find the Right Broker – Finding a realtor is key to a smooth transaction. Personality may be just as important as doggedness and experience. An agent will learn the ins and outs of your lives, as well as your home. So look for someone you can trust and feel comfortable with, as well as someone who can get the job done. Also, take into account those who have experience in specific neighborhoods – they may know more than you about where you live. Interview several to find a good fit.

Price it right – Once you have a realtor, they should help you set the price. Be realistic. Research and compare your home to those similar that have sold in the neighborhood in the last six months. Look into a comparative market analysis.

Make your Home a Stage – There are professionals who actually come in and stage your home for viewing and marketing. Create a blank, livable, welcoming palette. Paint the interior neutral colors. Buyers want to imagine their lives in your home, so clear away all the personal items and display generic, stylish accents.