(Family Features) The home showing is where interested buyers get to see beyond the pictures listed online for an up close and personal view. This is when interested buyers will envision your space as a possible canvas for their life, so creating an environment that fosters imagination is essential.
Have you followed the proper steps to provide the ultimate first impression? Here are a few tips to make your house the best it can be:
Keep it Clean
A clean house gives the appearance that it has been properly maintained. Go through each room and ensure that there is no clutter or odors. If you have too much stuff, consider donating items or placing them in a storage facility until you can move to your next location.
Neutralize the Space
Removing bold décor or paint colors will not only make your space appear larger, potential buyers will more easily be able to envision themselves and their belongings in your home. Choose neutral, basic colors like soft beiges and whites. This rule applies throughout the house, from floor to ceiling.
Add Extra Touches
A few inexpensive updates can make a huge difference to the overall feel of your house. Update the brass fixtures on your front door, replace the mailbox or add a new wreath to the entryway. If you can't afford to purchase these additional touches, borrowing such items (like colorful, modern outdoor furniture) is a great alternative.
Repairs
Simple repairs will need to be addressed before showing the home. However, don't overdo it with costly updates, such as adding a new roof or building a new patio. You will most likely not receive what you put into major upgrades.
Lawn Care
Your outdoor space is the first thing prospects will see, so make sure it is in tip-top shape. Mow, edge and water your lawn on a regular basis. Also, be sure to maintain the landscaping by trimming hedges, pruning trees and weeding the flowerbeds. Adding a few brightly colored flowers or shrubs to the front of your house is the perfect finishing touch.
Lighten Up
Try to make your home as airy and roomy as possible. If the weather is nice, open up the windows to let some fresh air in. If the room is naturally dark, add some lamps or other light sources. Nothing is more uninviting than a dark, gloomy space.
Follow these tips to make your home more presentable for prospective homebuyers and you're well on your way towards a sale.
