Selling Your House? Fix These 5 Things!

Looking for a new and perfect home with all the features you want is not always easy; in fact, for some buyers it can be a difficult and stressful time. If you are the one trying to provide all said features, this period of time can be even harder.

As a seller, you are expected to pack your things, talk to realtors, and perhaps most importantly, make your house look as appealing as possible. Here are a few things you may be overlooking that can better your home before you sell.   

1. Odor

Especially if you have children or pets, odor may be a issue. Years of accidents, food stains, or mildew build-up may take a toll on your house. If you know you have a bad smell, the first thing you should do is locate the stench. It may originate from your carpet, furniture, belongings, or even your walls. Once you have found the source of the stink, do whatever must be done to get rid of it. Remove the source and clean it, or throw it out. Deodorize the room (or house, if necessary) by cleaning it with mixtures of white vinegar and water. Since every situation is different, research the best cleaning methods and solutions that are within your abilities. Like most houses, yours probably has a distinct smell. Be sure that is is not a bad one.

2. Clutter

As you move out, this issue should resolve itself on it’s own. But if you must showcase your home with your things still inside, make sure that your clutter is gone or unseen. Before putting your house on the market, go through your belongings and determine what will go with you to your new house, and what can be thrown out. Donate old clothes, shoes, books, extra furniture, and countertop appliances that may take up space or fail to do justice to your house. Decide what sentimental belongings you really need to keep and what you don’t. Do you really need to keep your schoolwork from high school?  Do you really need receipts from a year ago? Did you miss it before? Will it matter if it’s gone? Clutter will not only make your move easier, but will encourage buyers that you are responsible and organized.

3. Discoloration and Spots

Spots on your carpet or walls can be a huge turn off for potential buyers. They would like to buy a clean home, not wonder what might have caused a stain. If you have spotty carpet, consider your options. If you have just a few spots, shampoo your carpet either by yourself or professionally. If the carpet is severely dirty or stained, consider removing and replacing it entirely. Though it may be an expense to you, updated carpet will help your house sell. If you have spots on your walls, wash them with soapy water or a cleaning solution. Research what to use beforehand, however, as some walls are made of unique materials and will react differently. Do everything in your power to remove discoloration, and your potential buyers will thank you for it.

4. Curb Appeal

The front yard and the outside of your house will be the first thing buyers see when they come to check out their potential home. It is crucial that their first impression is a good one. Weed your front gardens if you have any, your curb, and the cracks in your driveway. Rake up any stray leaves or debris left in the yard, and trim the plants. If you have flowers or bushes, make sure they are healthy and growing, otherwise, remove them. If you have a tree, be sure it is not overgrown or dying, which could be a disappointment to buyers with children. Do not worry too much about repainting your house unless the current paint job repels buyers (this can occur if the paint is peeling or corroded). Think about touching up the trim and doorway, which may give the house a nice face lift.

5. Appliances

Appliances are an iffy subject when it comes to selling your home. Because you don’t want to pump too much money into replacing outdated appliances, most realtors will discourage it. The exception to this rule is replacing broken or extremely outdated appliances. If you know your faucet is leaky, replace it. If you know that your refrigerator is so old that the new owners will most likely replace it, or even worse, not buy the house because of it, then by all means buy a new refrigerator. If you are taking some appliances with you, let the buyers know so they are prepared to find a new one.

As you get ready to move, you will take on the roles of buyer and seller. Walk through your current house before putting it on the market, and determine what must change. Do not leave your house in any condition that you yourself wouldn’t buy. Fixing up your house now will prevent problems in the future and problems for the new owners. 

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