John Karadsheh
Many homeowners have been waiting for prices to rise enough so they can upgrade or downsize.
If you are thinking of listing your home in 2014, now is the time to make a plan for getting your house in great shape to sell. Many buyers are choosing new over resale because the models present homes which are decluttered, neutral, crisp and clean. As you prepare to get your home ready to sell, be inspired by the concept of a model home, so your home can be the most competitive home on the market.
Most buyers form an assessment of the home within 30 seconds of walking in the front door. So, as in all things, it is important to make a good first impression. Here are a few things you can do to get your home ready to sell:
- Declutter. Cleared surfaces (counters, furniture) make rooms more appealing and look larger. There is a reason why model homes don’t have lots of knickknacks around. So, pack them away now.
- Buyers will be looking for location and layout, but they also are looking for a home. Most buyers envision being very organized in their new home. So, if the home they view is disorganized and cluttered, it is usually an immediate turnoff. Take the time to organize closets, cabinets and the garage. It may be a hassle, but it will make your home more marketable and your move easier.
- Consider making some minor upgrades. Repaint to lighter neutral colors (you don’t want to be remembered as the house with the purple wall), upgrade light and plumbing fixtures, and refresh landscaping.
- Resist the scents. I have had buyers refuse to walk through homes which are over scented with room sprays, plug-ins and pungent candles. Those strong smells take time to clear and make the buyer ask, “What are they trying to hide?” Open the windows and do a thorough cleaning. Clean is always the best smell.
- Detail it. Clean or replace the carpets, wash the windows, touch up the baseboards, re-stain the side gate and garage door, clean the ceiling fans, clean the air vents, and scrub and seal the grout. Most buyers are not looking for a dirty house or fixer upper. Well maintained houses make buyers more motivated to make an offer.
Of course, if you are not sure how to begin, give us a call. We will be happy to help you get your house on the market and sold.
John Karadsheh is a licensed REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker, Trails and Paths Premier Properties. He also is an Associate Broker, Accredited Buyers Representative, a Certified Residential Specialist, and was voted in the Top Five Residential Real Estate Agents in Arizona for 2012 and 2013 by Ranking Arizona, the Best of Arizona Business.
You can contact John with any of your real estate questions. Call him at (602) 615-0843, or go to his Web site at