If you were in the market right now to BUY a home instead of planning to SELL yours, what would you do? You would find homes listed for sale and DRIVE BY them!

That is exactly what potential buyers will be doing to your home once it is listed to sell.

A great percentage of home buyers decide whether or not to make an appointment to tour the inside of a home, or even take it seriously, based on their first impression – the DRIVE BY! You can ensure that “drive by’s” turn into “showings” by spending some time working on the appearance of the exterior of your house and property.

CURB APPEAL is a term used in the real estate industry to describe just how attractive the exterior of a property is or isn’t. Positive curb appeal can go a long way in selling your home and getting the highest dollar possible.

TAKE A WALK around your house and make a list. Enlist the experienced eyes of your Realtor to join you. Remember, potential buyers are looking at your home and property with a very critical eye. So you need to examine your house objectively too.

STAND at the farthest point on your property at the street and take a good look.
Start with the big picture first. Does the lawn need raking, mowing or edging? Do the bushes need a trim? Are there weeds that need pulling? What about paint? A new coat of paint can make a world of difference in giving a house a fresh look. Does the siding and/or the driveway, sidewalks and decking need to be pressure-washed to remove the dingy build up?

REMOVE everything non-decorative from around your yard, such as garden implements, children’s toys, broken or unused outdoor furniture. Keep the outdoor (and indoor) decorative items to a minimum to avoid clutter, which is difficult to see past.

INSIDE your home needs the same critical overview you’ve given the outside. Your Realtor can do a walk-thru with you to point out any problem areas. Potential buyers who tour your home will be very critical about everything; walls that need painting, carpet and floorings that need cleaning or replacement, outdated fixtures and plumbing. You can rely on your Realtor to help you decide which items on your “fix-it” list should be addressed. The cost of some repairs and cosmetic work may be well-worth your investment now to get the best sale price later.

PRICING your home to sell is determined by several factors that your Realtor takes into consideration before suggesting your “asking price”. Your Listing Agent will spend a lot of time doing research on homes in your approximate price range and size that have recently sold in your city and neighborhood. Comparisons will be made regarding lot size, house square footage, number of bedrooms and baths and various amenities, such as garage, fireplace, etc. Your Agent has your best interest in mind and will spend a good deal of time in determining your “asking price”. Your input is important, too. It is always appreciated and welcome.

YOUR REALTOR will go over the paperwork necessary to list your home on the market. The contracts will be explained in detail, agreements will be made about future showings and open houses, advertising and marketing plans will be shared. This is a good time to ask any and all questions you may have. The more informed you are about the workings of selling your property, the more comfortable you will be with the entire process.

Congratulations! You’ve hired a professional Realtor to assist in selling your home! You’ve worked hard to prepare your home for sale, and your Realtor is working hard to bring a buyer to you!

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