Tiny details count as much as the big things when you’re trying to sell a home.

You can’t always predict what will capture buyers’ fancy (or what will turn them off). But most buyers respond to certain things, such as a clean, clutter-free home in good repair. Homes that owners keep in tip-top shape for showings garner higher offers than homes that aren’t ready for showtime. You might have already suggested that clients paint their homes or do some major repairs. But other small-scale details can prove just as important in creating a salable home. Here are ten small-scale suggestions that you can give to help sellers prepare their homes for showings.

1. Have a garage sale before the home is listed. Get rid of clutter to allow the buyer to really see your home. Pack away everything you can and clean out items you won’t need in your next home. Homebuyers will expect you to be preparing to move, so a few packing boxes in the basement or other storage area can be used to your advantage. They could be a good visual stimulant to someone who is “on the fence;” they show that you are moving and are serious about finding a buyer. If your place is cluttered or too personal, buyers will feel that you are not ready to move.

2. Welcome the buyer at the entry. Put out a new doormat, but avoid mats with cutesy sayings. Clean and polish the door handle. Put potted flowers on the porch. Make sure the front entry floor is always sparkling clean and the porch and steps are always swept of debris and entire area is spotless. First impressions count.

3. Be ruthless about odors. If there is a smell, your house won’t sell. Deodorize cat litter and scoop litter daily. Put cedar chips inside the closets. However, be careful when using cleansers or room sprays as they can irritate allergies. No smell is better than one that will turn off a potential buyer.

4. Create a spacious feeling. Make sure that all doors, cabinets and drawers open all the way without bumping into anything or sticking. Clean out 1/3 of closets so that the buyer can visualize how much space there is. Move oversized furniture to a storage facility. Make sure entrances to all rooms have an open flow.

5. Make the most of views. Disguise unsightly views. All windows must be crystal clean and clear.

6. Create counter space. Store or put away appliances. Put away dish racks, soap dishes and other clutter. Decrease kitchen clutter further by removing magnets from the refrigerator.

7. Avoid eccentric decor. De-personalize your teenager’s room, the game room or other areas by removing wild posters or any decorative item that could be construed as offensive, religious or too personal. Remove decorations which might not appeal to the masses, from hanging beads in doorways to jars where your children store their spider collections.

8. Make the beds. Ensure fresh towels are hanging in the bathroom. Open window dressings to let the light in.

Now, step back, stand outside the front door, as much as 30 feet away, and evaluate the feeling they get. Is the house warm and inviting? Does it feel like home? Then perhaps it will to buyers, too. Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

This post was found on StagingWeblog.ca
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