You can significantly increase your home’s market value by taking a few
simple steps to uncover your home’s full potential. The goal is to attract
more potential homebuyers and ultimately increase the value of your home.
These simple tips are designed to help you showcase your home’s distinct
appeal.
Declutter.
ALL CLUTTER. The more you simplify each room, the better your buyer can
envision their furniture and style in your home. Take all your knick-knacks and store them in boxes.
Keep the décor simple.
Think of your home as a hotel. Keep the basic furniture, and add a few matching
accents. Remove your individual personal style. Make your home feel clean,
fresh and contemporary with a style that’s appealing and neutral to anyone.
First impressions are everything.
As this is true, make sure your home’s front entrance is immaculate. Repaint or
replace the front door if necessary, polish the door’s hardware and make glass
shine. Also ensure your front lawn is trimmed and the walkway is clear of snow,
sand and ice.
Go over your home with a fine-toothed comb.
Chances are you may not notice damage or problems that a new buyer would.
Be critical, and don’t give your buyer a reason to lose interest. Consider getting a home inspection prior to listing the home to be able to address any deficiencies.
Consider renovation.
Though not a necessity, certain renovations, such as new kitchens, bathrooms
and professional landscaping may reap a financial benefit that far outweighs the
cost. Consult with your real estate agent before beginning any work to ensure it
will be a profitable decision.
Fresh paint goes a very long way.
A fresh coat of paint is often enough to update the rooms in your home.
Remember to choose natural tones, as these are the most complimentary and
flattering for all furniture and styles. Say good-bye to your outdated pink, lime
green or tacky faux finish walls!
Pay attention to the small thing.
Dripping faucets, loose cupboard handles, sticking windows and other minor
flaws are often more visible than you think. Take the time to make these small
repairs.
Organize storage spaces.
Don’t forget to organize all the junk you’ve stored in your attic and basement over
the years. Display the full value of these spaces by removing unnecessary
articles and use proper storage solutions to organize what’s left.
Make your home inviting.
Light scented candles, check all your light bulbs and replace as necessary, and
ensure your home is odour & smoke-free. Show that you care about your home’s
appearance. During a showing, turn on lamps for extra lighting and shine, and
open curtains and draperies to add a cheerful appeal.
Clean your home from top to bottom.
Clean your house and keep it that way. Make your home ready for a showing any
day of the week. Yes, people will be critical when it comes to cleanliness, so
don’t disappoint in this area. Scrub your shower, clean your fridge, steam your
carpets, poop & scoop and freshen that litter box!
Ensure all appliances are in working order.
Especially if you are selling them with the house. No one wants to worry about or pay for a
dishwasher repair as soon as they move in.
Clean parts of your home you normally don’t pay attention to.
Dust windowsills, clean baseboards, organize the crawlspace, scrub windows inside and out, paint
the eaves trough, remove scuff marks from walls, weed the cracks in your driveway…make your house immaculate inside and out.
Make the exterior as inviting as the interior.
Outdoors: plant flowers and shrubs, seed and water your grass, add a small patio
set or some outdoor lighting, remove Christmas lights, and paint your mailbox.
Indoors: decorate with fresh flowers, make rooms feel cozy and complete with
proper drapery, rugs, books and matching accessories.
Pay attention to details.
Clean up cobwebs, fold towels in your linen closet to perfection, remove family
photos, protect your valuables, clean your furnace ducts, and make every detail
perfect. Make sure home buyers fall in love with your home by leaving no stone
unturned. It’ll be worth it!
Make space.
Organize closets, cupboards and the garage to make them look bigger. Neat,
uncluttered spaces increase the visual dimensions of the space.
Once you’re done, don’t be surprised if you love your home more than you ever
have. Looks attractive, clean and stylish right? If you’re impressed, home buyers
will be too!
TIP: WATCH Marie Kondo on NETFLIX she is a Japanese organising consultant and author that helps people declutter and organize their homes.