Many people think they have to do a lot of improvements to get their home ready to sell, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Our friends at Southern Athena suggest focusing on just a handful of projects with a high return on investment (ROI) that will actually give you more bang for your buck and help get top-paying buyers to the table.
Tip 1: Appealing to More Buyers = More Money for Your Home
Buyers will make a split decision concerning your property before they even get through the door. In order to appeal to the masses, you will need great photos and a neutral backdrop that highlights the best aspects of your home. First, declutter. Pack and remove 75% of all visible items. Then hire a professional cleaner to ensure your home looks sparkling and clean. Last, we almost always suggest painting any rooms with bold colors to give them a more neutral palette.
Tip 2: Fixing Only the “Deal-Breakers”
You don’t need to fix every item on your to-do list in order to sell for top dollar. Many buyers will complete a formal inspection and pick the requested repairs at that time. Focus only on repairs that would scare or intimidate a buyer prior to them making an offer. The money you spend elsewhere might be money down the drain. Fix the following "deal-breakers" before going to market:
-
Roof or plumbing leaks
-
Foundation or structural problems
-
Major safety issues
-
Termite, mold or odor remediation
Tip 3: Focus on Curb Appeal
It’s no surprise that Southerners love spending time outdoors and want to feel welcomed when they enter your home. The No. 1 improvement project with the highest ROI year after year is to replace or paint your front door. Put out a welcome mat, and spruce up your outdoor spaces so buyers can see themselves loving life at your home for years to come.
Download their complete Staging to Sell Checklist today.
