When a homebuyer sees a clean, well-maintained home for sale, they are more likely to make an offer to purchase it.  Let’s start by looking at the exterior of your home.  Does the siding look dirty?  Powerwash the outside of your home to make it look f

resher.  You may need to add a coat of neutral paint to the exterior of your home to make it even more appealing to more home buyers. 

2. Landscaping

Just like a freshly painted exterior will appeal to more buyers, freshening up the landscaping will boost the curb appeal of your home.  Start by trimming any overgrown trees, shrubs, and plants, especially if they’re blocking the front view of the house.  Considering adding some colorful potted plants near the front entry to draw home buyer’s attention.  Remove or replace warn “welcome” mats that aren’t so welcoming.

3. Roof

Consider having a home inspector or a roofing company inspect your roof.  If your roof is in poor shape, your real estate agent may encourage you to replace it before putting your home on the market.  Why?  Many homebuyers will be using a mortgage to purchase a home and, additionally, they’ll have to cover the cost of insurance.  If you don’t replace the roof but, instead, include an allowance in the buy-sell contract to cover the cost of replacing the roof, your buyer may have a difficult time getting home insurance.  By replacing the roof ahead of the sale of your home, you’ll increase your chances of finding buyers who can qualify to purchase your home.  

4. Your Home’s Interior

There are so many ways to improve the interior of your home so that it appeals to more buyers.  Your real estate agent is your ally when it comes to seeing your house without emotional attachment, unlike you as the homeowner.  Consider the wall of swords that you treasure.  Your agent know they won't appeal to the majority of home buyers and will encourage you to pack them up so they’re ready for your next home.  Don't be surprised if your agent encourages you to remove the majority of personal items in your home, including family photos.

A fresh coat of neutral paint throughout the interior of your home will go a long way in making your home appealing to more home buyers.  A neutral palette makes it easier for buyers to envision themselves and their furniture in the space.

5. Updated Appliances

When a buyer walks into your kitchen, you want them to be wowed and immediately envision themselves cooking in the space. Do you have to go to the extent of remodeling the space?  Possibly not.  Consider updating old appliances, replacing old countertops and the sink.  Buyers often comment on the appliances so if you can't afford to replace them, they should be spotless.

6. Floors

The floors in your home might need updating to impress home buyers.  If you’ve got outdated wall-to-wall carpeting, consider replacing it.  You might even choose a different type of flooring, like laminate or high-end vinyl, which are more affordable options than hardwood flooring and come with less maintenance.  

7. Heating and Cooling System

As with a roof replacement, if your HVAC system is old you should consider replacing it before putting your house on the market.  Many sellers can get away with having their HVAC system cleaned and serviced vs. replacing it, before listing their home for sale.  Talk to your home inspector and an HVAC professional to learn more about the state of your heating and cooling system.

Replacing an antiquated HVAC system, before putting your house on the market, can make it much easier to sell your house.

Affordable, Cost-Effective Updates

Many home improvement tasks won’t break the bank but will improve your chances of selling your home.  Consider the following updates for your home before you sell it:

• Replace old light switches and outlet covers
• Deep clean bathroom grout or re-grout
• Hire a professional to deep clean your carpets
• Powerwash the driveway, sidewalk, and siding
• Replace the kitchen sink
• Declutter

Conclusion

Whether you intend to sell your home this year or next year, now is the time to make improvements.  Some improvements are free, or at least affordable, while others will cost thousands of dollars.  Although expensive, replacing an antiquated HVAC system or a dilapidated roof will most likely make it easier to sell your home.  Talk to your real estate agent about which home improvements you should consider before selling your home.  I wish you a quick sale at the highest possible price!

Want more tips on how to sell your home? Check out our comprehensive home seller's guide!