In a perfect world, the process of putting your home on the market would be as seamless and carefree as a well-deserved vacation. However, if the home you are looking to sell isn’t exactly move-in ready, it can be confusing to determine which features are worth highlighting, replacing or simply repainting. I had a few questions about this very topic, so I spoke to a realtor friend of mine who works in and around the Prescott market and got some simple tips that will go far to help you get your home ready to sell.
First, it’s important to do a little market research, as updates and upgrades depend on market segments. Prescott and its surrounding areas vary in which features could be considered important to highlight, and this depends on the type of property you are working with. For example, if you own an equestrian ranch, take a close look at your pipe rail, or perhaps the chain-link fencing used to keep wildlife out. Perhaps these features could use a bit of a facelift. For a mobile home, repairing skirting or the deck could be pricy, but worth the investment to help your property stand out in a positive way.
However, if money is tight, never underestimate the power of the basics! Getting your home market ready can be as simple as a good deep cleaning. According to my realtor, “Budget bang for your buck is always cleaning.” Never undervalue the power of the magic eraser – scrub those baseboards and don’t forget the light switches! Pull out all of the appliances; sweep and vacuum the floors underneath and scrub the surrounding walls. Buyers will respect a home that is clean and well maintained. Remember simple fix-ups also, like weather stripping. Another useful and simple tip is cleaning your windows; a streak-free shine will go a long way while making the home feel brighter.
Buyers care more about value. “Preparing a home for market is more about increasing the value, helping it move quicker with less of a discount.” Buyers want to picture themselves living in the home they are viewing and cleanliness plays a huge role. In addition to a thorough cleaning, invest what you can in fixing damage. Pay attention to holes in the walls, broken doors, traces of animal damage, i.e. dog claw marks on doors (wainscoting is a good solution for such damage). Even if the impairments seem insignificant to you, it will send a negative message that makes the potential buyers wonder what went on inside the home.
Having the presence of a clean, well-maintained property shows that the homeowner took pride in the appearance and upkeep of the home. If budget allows, a fresh coat of paint will give the impression of a ready-to-move-in blank slate that the new home owner can decorate as they wish. When it comes to carpeting, don’t stress too much. Most potential homebuyers will disagree with your choice of carpeting anyway, so only consider replacing if obvious damage or pet stains are present. However, upgrading the flooring is a slightly different situation most of the time. Even a lower-end vinyl will give a fresh look that most will appreciate. But be cautious of the way you improve and repair. One or two great advancements on a low-maintained property could give the “lipstick on a pig effect” and could cause hesitation for some.
Instead, maybe decide to keep it unpretentious. Instead of a fancy update, concentrate on anything that screams deferred maintenance, appearances the buyer would expect the home owner to keep up with. Examples of this could include overgrown weeds, damaged smoke detectors or a dirty furnace filter. Think about this: if there is old, chipping paint on the fascia, had the homeowner ever been on the roof?
It’s always best to consult your relator with any update questions you have. Some items on your “must-do” list may not be as important as you think for selling your home. QCBN
By KJ Doumert
The Flooring Shack Prescott: 230 S. Montezuma | Prescott Valley: 9234 E. Valley Rd, Ste C | Chino Valley: 501 N. Hwy 89
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