Ten Proactive Tips for Selling Your Home in the New Year

If the sale of your current home is on your new year's resolution list for the coming year, you may be already be wondering about what 2017 will be like in regards to local real estate sales in your area.

The political climate, economic uncertainties, and even the weather can have an affect on the number of potential buyers who will be out looking for a home like yours.

While you cannot change those factors, there are a number of proactive steps you can take to minimize any potential impact they may have and help your home selling experience be the very best it can be.

1: Make Needed Repairs and Refurbishments Now

Whether its a cracked window pane, a missing roof shingle, or stained carpeting, make sure that all needed repairs and refurbishments get done in the months before you plan to list. Buyers need and want to see your home in its best condition, without being distracted by obvious needed repairs. 

2: De-Clutter

You are not just selling a home, you are selling space, so it makes sense to show off the amount of space your home offers.

This is particularly important if first time buyers will be making up a large segment of your potential buyer pool. As a group, first time buyers often seek out homes that offer open, multi-functional interior spaces that complement their busy lives. 

3: Organize Closets and Storage Spaces

Ample, organized, easy to use storage space is something that almost every buyer puts on the their wish list, so make sure that all your closet and storage spaces are also putting their best foot forward.

If your closets or storage areas seem dark, paint the interiors white or cream and make sure they are well lit. In addition, consider adding inexpensive shelving or closet organizer systems to some of your storage areas to add even more appeal. 

4: Deep Clean the Home's Interior and Exterior

Buyers love homes that are spotlessly clean and odor free, so make sure that your home fulfills those requirements before putting it on the market. Wipe baseboards, clean smudges from walls and floors, and make sure that windows, screens, siding, and exterior areas are also shiny clean.

5: Let There be Light

Natural light is the most flattering light for your home, so making sure that buyers get the full effect by removing dark window coverings and replacing them with sheer curtains or blinds that will help bring in as much natural light as possible. If you live in a hot climate, consider using a tinted window covering to allow light in while blocking much of the heat so rooms stay comfortable.

6: Help Every Room's Best Feature Shine

With many people now working from home or looking for a home that fits other specific needs, it is important to showcase the possibilities your home offers. If you know that home office space is popular in your area, consider making sure that your home offers an office, whether it be in a guest room, the basement, or the bonus room.

In addition, take time to arrange a few conversation or seating areas throughout the home and outdoor spaces to show added potential. 

7: Beef up the Bathrooms

Bathroom convenience and comfort is always popular among buyers, so consider making some simple changes to ensure your bathroom spaces look and feel good for buyers.

Simple ways to do this include maximizing storage by adding organizers to some of the drawers and closet spaces, making sure the lighting is warm and flattering and replacing stained or ugly fixtures, faucets, and flooring.

8: Offer Maximum Curb Appeal 

Take a good look at your home from the street to see what potential buyers will see when they arrive for a viewing. In addition to making sure that fences, lawns, flower beds, and the home's exterior are neat and attractive, also look for eyesores, such as garbage can storage areas or pet damage and make changes as needed.

9: Invite a Friend to See What You've Missed

Because you are so familiar with your home, it can be difficult for you to really visualize what potential buyers will see. To get a better idea and make sure that you have time to correct any potential issues found, consider having a friend or relative tour your home and critique it as if they were buying as part of your pre-listing preparations.

10: Hire the Right Real Estate Agent for the Job 

In addition to preparing your home for the market, inside and out, sellers who want the best selling experience and the best price for their home must hire the right real estate agent for the job. Look for agents who have a solid track record of selling homes like yours. Take time to talk to their past clients and get a feel for how they work and how responsive they are to their seller's needs. 

A home sale is certainly something that can benefit from early preparation. If your new year involves selling your home, you may want to get started now!