So, you decided to sell your property. Whether your property is a small bungalow, a mansion on 2 acres, or even a ranch, you want to get the most out of of the sale. Among the plethora of things to consider when selling a property includes first impressions, interior condition, staging, and access. 

As a Realtor, I am commited to assisting my clients sell their property quickly, with the least amount of effort, and for the best price. Here are some things to consider. 

First Impressions:  You never get another change to make a first impression. Buyers will often decide which homes to view based on photos they see online. Savy sellers will cater to buyer needs by preparing the exterior of the house to appeal to buyers. Some of the areas to consider is landscaping and manecured lawn, clean and well maintained, and a mailbox with fresh paint and upright.

Interior Condition: Ideally, the inside of your home will be clean, freshly painted, and without need for any apparent repair. If painting is not possible, a deep cleaning will go a long way in appealing to buyers. Besides the typical cleaning, clean the blinds, ceiling fans, windows, all areas of the bathroom including shower doors, and air conditioner vents. When repair items exist, buyers see this as an objection. They are about to make a big purchasing decision. Unless they are an investors, new buyers will often walk away from a house in need of repair. 

Staging: While sellers love their house with all their personal items, buyers see that as a distraction. Houses that are decluttered, organized, and are depersonalized will appeal to buyers. Why is that so? Buyers typically enter a home  looking at whether the home will fit their needs. When personal items and clutter are present, potential buyers see the home as belonging to the seller. Where to start? First things first, place any unnecessary furniture in storage or in the garage. Pack away all family photos, certificates, and diplomas. Organize closets as neat and tidy as possible. Remember, less is more.

Access: Now that you have completed all the prep-work, it's time to make your listing public and get it sold. First, you have to attract buyers to your house. In my experience there are so many areas to consider when selling a house, that sellers are best served by hiring an experienced agent who puts your needs above their own. (That's me!) Next, be flexible when a request is make to show your house. Particularly if you still occupy the property, it's not always easy to fix all beds daily, keep dishes washed, plan meals without major prep, and keep the bathrooms tidy. However, if you really want or need to sell the property fast, all these are necessary. And, lastly leave your house for showings. Buyers will feel uncomfortable with owners there. And, they don't usually look around as they would if the seller is not there.

Now, knowing how to be prepare your property to sell, what is the first thing you will do when the time is right to sell your property?

Trudy LeDoux - Realtor
Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene
The Woodlands, TX  |   832-217-9012