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1. Ensure your property appeals to the broadest buying public, which means "neutralise it"! If the decorating style is too far out, people will be put off by the "personality" of the home, and it will be difficult for them to see themselves and their own belongings in the house. Just because you love it does not mean everyone else will. This is the biggest and most common mistake.
2. Ensure that cupboards are not crowded or cluttered. Have a tidy up and clean out of each storage space to make sure potential buyers can see the space. Crammed spaces give the perception that there is not enough storage space and that the house is bursting at the seams.
3. Ensure that the corners of the rooms can be seen, so remove extra or over-sized plants, fans, gym equipment, chairs and tables.Often, furnishings are too big or there are too many for the available space within the home. Remember that you are showing off your home to potential buyers, not your furniture. Although the furniture of the property can complement the house well, and add to the general perception of the property, it should not be at the expense of the "overall picture".
4. Ensure that your house is clean! The best way to maintain the value of your single largest investment is to follow a regular cleaning schedule. When your house is on the market, it has to be clean and ready for showing every minute of the day.
5. Some potential buyers are really adverse to animals of any kind, and that means that any evidence of pets will deter them from showing interest in the property. If you have pets, vacuum daily to keep the hair under control and think about removing them from the property while it is being shown.
6. Reveal, never conceal, problem areas, and be sure to reflect any deficiencies and necessary repairs in the list price. Never hide damage to flooring, counter tops, walls or other permanent fixtures. This is a big no-no
7. A bedroom is always more of a selling point that storage space or an office, so do not waste the opportunity to show off the potential of a room by filling it with clutter or office furniture.
8. The best way to increase equity in your house is to upgrade the things in your house often. The simplest and least costly upgrades include light fixtures, taps and faucets, door and cabinet hardware, and drapery and window treatments. When you come to sell you will reap the rewards.
9. Identify the competition then make your house look better than any house currently on the market. Care and attention to the details will impress potential buyers, and if the house is "move in ready" then that means less work for them and possibly a better offer for you. If an open home is being run in your neighbourhood, why not pop round and have a look at the competition - don't worry, you won't have any obligation to make an offer just becuse you go to the open home.
Author: Gabriele P Campbell
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