In the final installment of this blog series, we’ll look at the four final things you can do to help your house be the “Cinderella” of those on the market. And those of you in DC, East Bethesda and the surrounding neighborhoods know there can be lots of competition for buyers’ attention.
Again, these are from a recent Washington Times article that quoted me and cited my experience in this area.
· Get Your Documents in Order – Potential buyers will want to see these to get a feel for how the house has been maintained and how expensive it is to operate. These items include:
o Your title insurance policy.
o Most recent statement of any outstanding mortgages. This helps the agent calculate estimated net proceeds for seller after expenses.
o Detailed list of home improvements, with installation dates and brand names of any new systems or appliances.
o All manuals and warranties for systems/appliances in the home.
o Utility costs for most recent year.
o List of colors for paint, carpet, and tiles installed. Extra samples/pieces of these are also helpful to have.
o Homeowner Association contact information, if applicable.
o Any other info on the home’s features to help in marketing it.
· Update – Out of date colors or fixtures scream “older home!” And this can turn buyers off. If you’re not sure what to do, consider hiring a professional stager for help. But there are very simple updates that everyone can do such as:
o Change a backsplash or refinish surfaces.
o Update countertops.
o Paint cabinets.
o Replace older light fixtures with newer ones.
o Put up lighter, airier window treatments to let in more light.
o Use high-wattage bulbs in rooms without much natural light.
Focus updates on kitchens, master suites, and baths, as these—even more than location—are what sell homes. Kitchens, especially, seem to move a buyer one way or the other. Even a ten-year-old kitchen might be out-of-date for today’s buyers.
· Check the Outside – You can’t do much in winter in some areas, but once the weather warms place some colorful plants and flowers out front. Also keep the lawn mowed and weeds pulled. You won’t get the buyer over the threshold if they don’t like what they see on a drive-by.
· Remember the Unseen – This includes things like electrical, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, and the structural quality of remodeling projects like additions or decks. Remember that repairs in these areas take longer than other fixes, so talk to a contractor well before a pending sale.
Even a little fix-up is better than nothing when it comes to selling a home, and you are your home’s Fairy Godmother. Work with what you have, make whatever improvements you can, and you’ll likely see that “Sold” sign out front in short order.
Contact me today for expert help buying or selling in the DC, MD, & VA area! I also specialize in Bethesda and Chevy Chase, as well as the sub-divisions of Rosemary Hills, Rock Creek Forest, East Bethesda, & Whitehall Condominium.
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