When you put your home on the market, you are selling more than the physical structure. Think of it as selling a lifestyle. This is why preparing your home is so important. As buyers walk through your home, they are trying to imagine themselves living there. A savvy seller will help them along the way!
Here are some suggestions to get you started:
One of the ways is to set the dining room table. The china doesn’t come with the house, so why would you do it? Because buyers want to believe that if they buy your home they will finally be able to have those fabulous dinner parties they’ve been dreaming about. You are not trying to deceive buyers; you are just providing a visual to stimulate their imagination.
What do cluttered bathrooms bring to mind? A family rushing in the morning to get ready for work and school? Countertops empty of everything but a shine, reflect a relaxed atmosphere, in addition to an overabundance of storage. A strategically placed wine glass and book by the tub conjures up a vision of long bubble baths, something most buyers would find very appealing.
Don’t overlook the kitchen, which is one of the most important rooms to buyers. Make sure all clutter is put away. Place a cookbook on the counter, with it opened to a photo of a delectable dish. Buyers imagine a lifestyle of gourmet meals, instead of hot dogs and macaroni and cheese.
It’s very important to keep toys picked up, fingerprints cleaned off walls, and any other sign that says if you buy this home, your kids will go wild. A children’s book on the table next to the best reading chair will convey a positive image.
Soft music playing will give your home a soothing ambiance, in stark contrast to the blaring TV and kids screaming that the buyers may be experiencing now. This will also cause buyers to slow down, which will allow them to experience your home in a more leisurely manner. The longer they stay in your home, the better the chances they’ll write an offer.
If your home is more geared toward a single person or a couple without children, keep that in mind as you set the stage. A small intimate seating area, complete with tray and coffee cups, might be an appealing addition.
Use your imagination, and think about what you would like to find in a home. If you get stuck for ideas, visit a model home. Hiring a professional stager is a great solution, too. Stagers can look at your home objectively to make the necessary changes.
Just remember, selling a home can be made easier if you also offer buyers a new lifestyle.
Bob is a Denver native and involved in the real estate business for over 18 years. During this time, he has closed over 500 transactions, and has been the broker of record for 1000's more. Bob can be reached via email (bob@byownercolorado.net) or phone (303.770.1180.)