Selling your Austin or Round Rock home? Try these eight easy steps to help make your home more attractive to buyers:
- Clear the clutter. Recycle the stacks of old newspapers or magazines we all tend to hold on to. Move excess or bulky furniture items into a storage unit or POD - not the garage. All those cute little collectibles and other decorative items should be put away or in storage.
- Go for an all-out clean. Try to make your home spotless. Be sure to wipe pesky fingerprints from door edges and light switch plates. Give your appliances a thorough cleaning; don't forget to clean the sides and underneath the range and refrigerator. If your budget allows, hire a cleaning service to come in and take care of this task.
- Banish odors from the home. Buyers want to see a clean, odor-free place. If you have carpet, rent a steam cleaner to get rid of cooking smells and pet odors. Open the windows and doors periodically to air out your home. You can use room sprays and scented fragrance warmers, but be careful not to go overboard. A light, fresh, clean scent is best.
- Make it bright. Be sure to replace dim or burned out light bulbs. Consider using higher wattage bulbs in your fixtures. Pull back curtains and open the blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color can also lend to a brighter space. Cool, colorful new accent pillows on the couch can help pull it all together.
- Tackle the small stuff. Fill holes in your walls; repair dripping faucets or a toilet that runs. This will give potential buyers the impression that your home is well maintained.
- Don't forget the outside. Power-wash the exterior, including windows. Get after those clogged gutters, too. Consider giving a fresh coat of paint to siding and trim. Repair or replace damaged screens and rotted wood or trim. Spruce up your lawn by raking leaves and keeping the grass cut and edged. Freshen gardens with new flowers and mulch.
- Be open-minded. Ask your REALTOR for advice. After all, he or she is an expert in selling properties. Gather suggestions from neighbors or close friends. Have them come by and walk through your home. They may be able to comment on items that you have neglected or absent-mindedly missed.
- Leave. This is one of the most important tips. Prospective buyers want to view your home without feeling like they are being watched. They may not feel comfortable looking in closets or making comments for fear of hurting your feelings.