Dear Home Seller,
Selling a home can be one of the most stressful experiences of a lifetime, but leads to one of the most rewarding - buying a new home. That's not surprising. After all, a home mortgage loan is the largest contract most of us will ever sign. Add to that the unfamiliar terminology and the endless stacks of legal documents, and it's not surprising that many customers are confused by the whole experience.
But selling a home doesn't need to be difficult. In fact, with a little preparation and the right attitude, it can even be fun. That's why we have prepared the many Tips and Help sections of our web site. It will take some of the mystery - and some of the misery - out of the process.
Preparing Your House For Sale
In preparing your home for sale, you should aim to present your home to the buyer in a "ready to move in" condition. Many buyers will be discouraged if they know that they have to do a lot of work to a home before they can move in, such as:
- Professional Carpet Cleaning
- Replacing Bathroom Tiles
- Replacing Worn Flooring
- Painting
- Landscaping
Appliances
Buyers don't want to have to replace old, outdated appliances either. So, if at all possible, you should replace inefficient or unattractive appliances before showing your home.
Other Information
You may also want to gather certain documents to present to interested buyers. These may include the prior 12 months utility bills, tax bills, a recent appraisal, and a favorable inspection report. These items may aid in negotiating price with a potential buyer.
Simple Home Improvements
Make an Impressive First Impression
Paint the door; add polished brass fixtures such as address numbers, door knobs or lanterns; trim the bushes; plant fresh flowers; and lay down a new welcome mat.
Cut the Clutter
Have a garage sale to get rid of dilapidated items; straighten the cupboards and closets; and park your rusty old car any place but in front of your home! You might also consider putting unneeded items in storage to make your house and closets more roomy, and you'll be that much farther ahead being packed to move into your new home.
Clean and Shine
Make your home spotless and fresh-smelling. Hire a professional carpet cleaner and air out any smoke or pet odors.
Paint
Your taste may be unique. Tone down wall colors and wallpaper prints by painting or papering rooms in neutral colors like beige and white. These appeal to a greater number of people. Spackle is cheap, fill holes and cracks.
Fix Leaky Roofs and other Moisture Problems
Water stains on the basement walls or interior ceilings can raise red flags for potential buyers. If you cannot afford to fix water damage, explain the problem to buyers. You will be liable for any problems you know about but don't disclose.
Get the Bugs Out
Exterminate any pests such as ants, termites, or rodents. One bug can send a potential buyer running.
Pay Special Attention to the Bathrooms
A bathroom must be sparkling. Replace any vanities, soap dishes, wall coverings or carpets that aren't "hotel clean."
Make Small Repairs
LIttle things are the mark of quality. Tighten loose knobs; fix leaky faucets; oil squeaky door hinges; and replace any dirty furnace filters, drain catches or torn window screens.
We hope you've found our home selling tips useful. Be sure to visit our other help pages for other good tips and information.
Copyright © 2000-2003 Erbes Construction
