Three Absolutely Critical Components of Selling Your Home

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With national and local housing inventories at such historical highs, it’s no wonder that homeowners are scrambling to sell their homes in the wake of all the competition that surrounds them.  But there is hope for those people that follow these three simple but very effective guidelines that are suggested by experts and proven to work.  As long as you are committed, are willing to sacrifice a little to gain a lot and do these steps in a timely manner, success is all but guaranteed!

Make Sure the Exterior is Warm and Inviting

Curb appeal is such an important aspect of homes that there is an entire show dedicated to it on a popular television network.  Curb appeal effectively pulls potential buyers in and keeps them interested – something that is very important when you are up against other homes being sold in the neighborhood.  Before you set out to sell your home, take some time to survey the exterior.  List all the things that need updating, are outdated or areas that can stand to have some fresh plants and landscaping.

Once you have mapped out what is needed, determine your budget and then do your best to modernize the area, while making it warm and inviting to outsiders.  This includes things like neutral stone walkways, mulch flowerbeds, a brand new welcome mat or attractive planters set up at the entry way.  You can also invest in relatively inexpensive light fixtures and if there is some space, a small bistro table and chairs set.  Just remember that from the moment that buyers drive up, they should want to feel the urge to come inside to see more.

The Center of the House Should Be the Center of Your Attention

No room is more frequented than the kitchen and when it comes to buying a home, that is the first room that most buyers check out to decide whether the home is worth pursuing or not. If you have an outdated kitchen or one that has some elements that need to be updated, decide your investment limit and be smart by putting in a sizable amount toward the kitchen.  New countertops, sink and large appliances are hot ticket items.  Also tile, wood or laminate flooring is a popular kitchen feature that attracts homebuyers.  While these things can cost quite a bit, especially if you opt for expensive features like custom-built granite countertops or stainless steel major appliances – the investment also usually pays off.  Dollar for dollar, homeowners that invest in their kitchens and other major areas of the home are able to yield a higher sale price.

Pristine, Clean, Sparkling Bathrooms Are Buyer Favorites

Imagine shopping for a home only to find that the main bathroom has old cabinets, a stained toilet and tub or flooring with cracks, dirt and grime.  An automatic turnoff, most buyers will not even consider the rest of the home if this essential part of the house is not up to par.  Bathroom renovation, repair and updating does not have to cost too much.  Of course you can invest as much as you like however with a few key items the entire bathroom can be updated sufficiently.  Most national home improvement department stores carry new bathroom vanities, some with built-in sinks that do not cost too much.  If you add new sink and light fixtures, hire a professional cleaner or install a new standard toilet – you can completely transform the bathroom.  A few cosmetic touches also does the trick; adding some plants, new rugs and towels.
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If budget is a concern, it is a good idea to list all of the potential problem areas and then check off the major ones that you can tackle leading up to the listing of your home.  For a consultation and some advice on what areas might benefit more from renovation, check with your Realtor.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrXQxYQRcKA