How to Sell Your Home For the Highest Price Possible

The old notion of caveat emptor - “buyer beware” - has been turned on its head. Lately, with all the talk about “buyers’ markets” and “changing real estate values,” as well as the myriad complexities and legal ramifications of today’s real estate transaction, a more appropriate sentiment may be “seller beware”.

The average homeseller may feel like a lamb in the lion’s den. In such adverse conditions, it seems everyone is out to pull the rug - and your profits - right out from under you.

This information is designed to give you the tools you need to protect your most important investment when it’s time to sell. Before you put your house on the market, follow this information guide to reap the maximum rewards possible.

Your home must sell itself

An attractive home, well maintained and sparkling clean, is most appealing to your potential buyers. The following checklist covers those items that influence a buyer most.

First Impression - Outside

  • Trim the lawn and keep it green. Shape up the shrubs and weed the flower beds.
  • Clear the entry by keeping the walks free of toys, garden tools and other hazards.
  • Brighten the structure with a coat of paint, or a good cleaning. Replace damaged screens.
  • Remove staiins from walls or sidewalks with bleach or commercial cleaner.
  • Add charm with flowers along the entry walk, or in cheerful window boxes.
  • Remove grease stains from the driveway with kitty litter or a chemical solvent.
  • Pick up all pet droppings and debris.
  • Tidy up the garage and show off its size. Get rid of articles you don't want to move.

Invitation Inside

  • Perk up rooms with fresh paint. A modest investment in time and money can add dollars to your final selling price. Sometimes just a touchup will do. Choose light neutral colours for greatest appeal.
  • Clean up all clutter, paying special attention to stairways, halls and childrens rooms. Also go on a kitchen campaign and keep it especially clean. The sink should always be clean and free of dirty dishes. Counter tops should be clean and uncluttered. Freshly mopped floors and baseboards are a must.
  • Bathrooms must sparkle with clean porcelain and tile.
  • Wash all windows, keep drapes clean, vacum blinds and wash window sills.
  • Clear out closets to make them appear roomier. Add extra space by pre-packing out of season clothing.
  • Clean the fireplace and make a cozy, crackling fire. Or, dress it up with green plants or dried flowers.
  • Roll out the welcoming mat with a rough textured doormat. It will keep your floors and carpets clean during the showings, and it says you care about your house.
  • Eliminate odours by preventing them in the first place. Avoid cooking with cabbage, onion or garlic. Many people associate strong spicy odours with uncleanliness. Freshen the entire kitchen by sending a lemon through the garbage disposal. Sweeten the refridgerator with baking soda.
  • Add special accents that make your house look comfortable and inviting. An open cookbook on the counter, cut flowers in a vase, cookies or baking bread in the oven. Don't overdo, but think about things that you have seen in attractive model homes that might subconsciously influence potential buyers.

Need Help Selling?

Price Fact

The best chance for selling your property is within the first seven weeks. Studies show that the longer the property stays on the market, the less the seller will net.

It is very important to price your property at a competive market value at the signing of the employment agreement. The market is so competitive that even overpricing by a few thousand dollars could mean that your house will not sell. Interestingly, your first offer is usually your best offer.

Extra Efforts

  • Empty out the attic to display the full value of this much appreciated but often neglected storage space.
  • Clean and brighten the basement with light paint and large wattage bulbs.
  • Breeze through the patio and remove any unneccessary lawn furniture, hoses, sprinklers and garden tools to make the yard look more expensive. If you have a pool or jacuzzi, give it a thorough scrubbing and place a few plants nearby.
  • Treat pets to a stroll while your house is being shown. Many people are afraid or allergic to animals. By removing them, buyers won't feel hurried or nervous.
  • Turn off the television or radio. Potential buyers can look at your house quietly and without distraction.
 
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