I met with a group of Realtors yesterday and the mood in the room was somber. As I listened to agents talk and console each other about subprime mortgage changes and a more challenging market I'm thinking that many of these agents have forgotten the basics in the froth and exuberance of the last run in housing prices: Clean up your house so it shows well!
Clutter is buyer repellant. Before putting your home on the market, get rid of clutter in every area -- closets, attic storage, kitchen cabinets, drawers, bath vanities, and shelves -- everywhere. Remember, this is no time to be sentimental: if you don't use it, get it out of the house. Potential buyers are seriously put off by clutter, and most of us keep a lot more things than we really show buyers.
Also, don't forget the furniture and fixtures when getting rid of clutter -- most of us put too much in too little space, which makes a buying prospect, think your home is too small.
- Then, have a great moving sale with all the stuff you've collected and use the proceeds for paint or whatever other materials you need for repair projects.
- Get storage. Mobile storage providers have made it easier than ever to pack up your belongings and keep them out of sight. They come in a variety of sizes and can often ship to your new home without having to repack. Find a local one at Mobile Self Storage Association.
- Give it away. There are lots of local charities that will recycle your belongings. Call local churches, thrift shops or post a listing on Craig's list in the free section. Often times, people will come and pick it up from you.
After you've cleared out the clutter, it's time to really clean. Have the carpets professionally cleaned, strip and polish the floors, scour the bathrooms, go over the laundry room, polish the furniture, scour out the cabinets, wash the windows and window coverings, and spiff up the ceiling fans and kitchen appliances. In short, clean everything. And don't forget the exterior; paint or power-wash everything that needs the work. Remember, this is a ceiling-to-floor, roof-to-foundation clean-up project.
The market is tougher, but don't neglect the basics. A clean, de-cluttered house is the best way to get buyers to buy your house!
No comments:
Post a Comment