Tips & Suggestions
You have probably heard how important first impressions can be. But did
you know that within 15 seconds a buyer has already developed an
opinion of your property? 
This is why establishing the right first
impression is critical to achieving a successful sale. The following are suggestions on how to make sure the buyer reacts as favorably as possible.
This is why establishing the right first
impression is critical to achieving a successful sale. The following are suggestions on how to make sure the buyer reacts as favorably as possible. - THE HOME FRONT
- Street- Make sure the street in front of your house is free of litter or debris.
- Fence- A freshly painted fence gives a home a crisp look. You should never let a peeling, tired-looking fence stand between a prospective buyer and a positive first impression.
- Landscaping- Neatly trimmed shrubs and freshly mowed lawn are essential. Taking the time to do this costs a little, but has a big impact.
- Paint- A fresh coat of paint can be one of the best investment you can make to increase the value of your home.
- Roof- The roof may be the single most important aspect of you home front. Replace any broken or missing shingles or tiles. Repair flashing and paint eaves and fascia boards.
- APPEAL TO THE SENSES
- Light- It is proven that people react more favorablly to property shown under bright light than dark. Keep windows clean. Use light wall colors. Open blinds and drapes and turn on lights prior to showings.
- Color- A fundamental rule when selling your house is to keep colors neutral and light. White, beige and gray are the most popular exterior colors. White, off-white, and very light pastels are the safest choices for the interior. Avoid highly patterned wallpaper.
- Sound- The sounds of peace and quiet are some of the best sounds to have when your home is being shown. Avoid barking dogs and noisy children, if possible. Sounds of work like vacuums, dishwashers and lawn mowers should also be avoided.
- Smell- Smell has more impact than you might expect. It can work for or against you. The smell of newness is positive and can be achieved by applying a fresh coat of polyurethane to natural wood or latex paint to walls.
- PACKAGING THE INTERIOR
- Entry- The entry is where the first impression of the interior is created. Here you have the opportunity to make a big statement in a small area.
- Kitchen- The kitchen is perhaps the most important room in the house. If your kitchen needs some real help, you may want to make extensive improvements. However, by refinishing the surface your dated appliances, replacing outdated light fixtures, and making sure the room is virtually spotless; you can increase the appeal of your kitchen without spending a great deal of money.
- Bathroom- This room has moved from the utilitarian to the exciting. By replacing older fixtures, adding color and richness with new towels, and keeping personal care articles out of sight, you can improve deficiencies and create interest.
- Living Room- Buyers look for elegant and impressive living rooms to make the right statements to their friends and relatives. The strategic placement of a mirror over a mantle or across from a window can make a room look brighter and larger.
- Bedrooms- Make sure the bedrooms are absolutely spotless. Organize closets to increase their perceived size. A ceiling fan can be an attractive and practical accent to any bedroom
- Garage- A well-organized garage says a lot for your house. Hang gardening tools and loose articles on the wall. Keep garage neat and organized. Hold a garage sale to dispose of unused items that create clutter and may distract potential buyers.
