Home Selling Tips!

It's no secret that in a competitive market like we are currently in, it is in the best interest of all Sellers to make the best possible first impression.

You may only get one chance to WOW the Buyers that come through your home during Open Houses and Showings so you really need to make the most of your opportunity.

Here's a few simple tips to ensure you give it your best shot.

1. MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY

Don't rush your home to the market. If it's broke - fix it. If it is dirty - clean it. Don't believe that the Buyer will take notice that you are a "work-in-progress" - they won't be that kind! Instead they will move on to the next place that is more "Show Ready".

2. CLEANLINESS COUNTS!

And on the contrary - "dirtiness can cost you" big bucks when it comes to the offers you get. I like to tell people to clean like they are expecting their pickiest relatives over for a family dinner - and then keep it that way - every day. I know this is much easier said than done but it WILL PAY OFF! It is a fact that CLEAN HOUSES SELL.

3. THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS

I can't tell you how many times Buyers I am showing houses to are turned off by funky smells. The most likely culprits? Cats, dogs and other pets. Cooking odors. Smoking is a big one. As is mildew (get that dehumidifier going!). And sometimes the worst - OVER SCENTING with too strong potpourri, air freshener plug-ins in the like. Find a happy -neutral - medium and you will be just fine. And always get an honest second opinion from someone who doesn't live in the home. It's amazing how we can become accustomed to smells that others notice immediately.

4. SETTING THE STAGE

This is becoming more and more critical. You want the Buyer to imagine themselves living in the home. That's hard to do when there are 47 pictures of the Seller's and their kids on the wall! De-clutter. De-personalize. And take your agent's advice when it comes to staging your home to get the best mass appeal.

I have a thousand more tips. For more, please CONTACT ME!

In the meantime - here's a link to an excellent StarTribune Article with more tips.

Happy Selling!