The minute you decide to sell your house, it is no longer your home, your castle, or your sanctuary. Shift your mindset toward thinking of your home as a product to be merchandised. Develop a critical “buyer’s eye” and try to look dispassionately at every aspect of the property, both inside and out.

After you have made all your repairs, scrupulously cleaned and scrubbed every nook and cranny, and cleared out the clutter, you’re ready for your first showing. Here are a few tips:

  • Where possible, keep blinds and drapes open. The first impression should be light and bright. Keep as many lights on as necessary to make the rooms bright, especially rooms that are naturally darker.
  • Where practical, leave a few windows open to keep the airflow up. On especially hot days, keep the air conditioning or fans on. On especially cold days keep the heat on. There only needs to be a few degrees difference from the outside in order to make the home feel welcoming.
  • This is a time when your hidden domestic goddess really needs to come out. Before leaving the house make sure things are picked up and tidy.
  • Fresh flowers and plants are a welcoming sight. Stay away from artificial air fresheners and scented candles. Many buyers are sensitive to the perfume they use, and feel they are a sign of trying to mask something unpleasant.
  • Leave the house when prospective buyers arrive with their agent. Buyers will feel freer when the seller is not there, and will linger to get a feel for the home.
  • Leave the negotiating to your agent! Let your Realtor® discuss price, terms and other factors. Don’t volunteer unnecessary information such as your motivation to sell or your eagerness to get a quick offer.

While it’s a little extra work keeping your house in “showing condition,” the big payoff will be a quicker sale for top dollar!

Posted by:Deborah Byrne