Are you selling your home? If so, you’re probably expecting a few potential buyers that are interested in scoping out the place. When it comes to showing your home, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Take into consideration these tips. Tips for Home Showings:
Fill your home with a fresh clean smell!
There’s nothing better than walking in to a house that smells great. Consider a neutral scent such as vanilla, orange, lavender, cotton or linen. Do not over use scented sprays; guests may think you are trying to mask something. A candle will suffice and create ambient lighting.
Use neutral décor.
Help buyers to imagine living in your house. Skip the personalized décor and go for something neutral. Consider hiring someone to stage your home as well. Decorators usually have a few pieces that will work best for your space.
Clean, clean and clean some more.
Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink, crumbs on the floor or trash out. Better yet, wash the drapes, have the carpet steamed and scrub all appliances.
Brighter is better!
Dark and dingy? No. Open the curtains, blinds and any other shades or drapes. Natural light is best. If you have potential buyers coming at night or on a dreary day, turn on all the lights.
Keep it comfortable.
It’s mid-July, it’s 105 degrees, and the AC is not on. How long do you think buyers and agents will stay in your house? Leave the thermostat at a comfortable temperature at all times.
Make a great first impression when potential buyers arrive.
You will never regret having great landscaping. Have the yard mowed, plant some shrubs or bushes and set out those rocking chairs or planters. Skip the countless garden gnomes and busted flamingos.
Knock out those simple fixes.
Simple fixes can make all the difference. How does the paint look? Repaint the trim for a crisp, clean look. Replace old bulbs, nail down loose boards on the porch and so on. Spend a few bucks and do the work yourself!
Take care of your pet.
Do not leave your pets at the house while potential buyers are there. Take pets for a walk or to a friend’s house. Nothing is worse than a dog barking, a cat in a dirty litter box or aggressive guard dog.
Don’t linger.
Give the agent and potential buyers their space. Allow them to scope the place out without looking over their shoulder. You may know the house better, but it can make some uncomfortable. If you are wanting to showcase a renovated space or point out a few upgrades, consider making an album of before and after photos. You can also create a document that lists all upgrades. Leave these items in a single location for buyers and agents to review.
Allow access.
Every room needs to be accessible during the open house. If you’re not ready for your house to be viewed, don’t offer. Make the proper arrangements and preparations; there’s a reason it’s called a showing!
Be flexible!
There are a lot of houses on the market at any given time. If someone wants to see your house, they’re interested. Don’t make buyers work just to see your home. Try to allow showings whenever requested.
