Three simple ways to increase your homes selling price...

Sellers often ask me "what could I do to sell my home for as much as possible?'  The reality is that there are many items to consider which also speed up the process which in turn depending on the situation may increase profits and/or minimize holding cost in turn netting the seller a higher amount on their sale.  With that said in the interest of simplicity I have put a list of three things a seller should consider doing prior to listing their home which will help in selling their home for as much as possible.

1.  Spruce up the exterior of the home.  The vast majority of buyers I have worked with over the course of the last two decades rule out or consider the home when pulling up to the home for the first time.  First impression is very important.  Let the home be seen, trim back landscape if over grown, keep the lawn maintained well, remove any items on the property that are not necessary (toys, garden tools, etc.).  Consider painting the home or a power wash.  Repair broken items such as gutters, fencing, etc.  This will get the buyers into the home feeling good.

2.  Paint the home neutral colors.  This will help in multiple regards.  It will tend to smell fresh and new, potentially brighten rooms, potentially give the perception of larger space and appeal to a larger percent of buyers.  There is a reason builders select neutral colors when selling homes.  I cannot tell you how many times buyers have been turned off due to a room painted a bright color or walls that are damaged from scuffs, etc.  This is easily avoidable with a simple paint job throughout the home.

3.  Clean and cosmetically enhance the kitchen and bathrooms.  At minimal a deep cleaning with re-caulking and paint is typically necessary.  Depending on the sellers situation and the market it could be lucrative to do a partial or full renovation.  My agents and I are constantly having clients make decisions on which home to put an offer on based on the condition and likeability of the kitchen and bathrooms.  This will leave a lasting impression on buyers.

Naturally there are other items which could certainly help and each sellers situation is different and should be customized based on a number of factors. 

Steve Braconi