by Leslie Wells REALTOR®
It’s no secret that we’re experiencing a shift within the housing market. Homes are staying on the market longer and prices are trending downward. Inventory is once again plentiful. As a seller, you may wonder if there’s anything you can do to move the needle in your favor. Well, there just might be.
When the market slows, homes compete.
Imagine 3 different houses listed for sale, all within the same neighborhood, all with roughly the same amenities, all priced similarly. However, almost immediately, one of the three begins seeing double the foot traffic. Offers are placed, and the home sells fairly quickly. The other two remain sitting, with very little interest. Assuming all agents were working equally as hard, how is that possible? On the surface they looked so similar. Often when we dig deeper, we realize the houses that move faster are those where the sellers didn’t skip the small details. Here’s what you can do to help keep your home in the running:
Start with curb appeal. Keep the lawn freshly mowed. This is a tall order during the rainy season, but it has a huge impact. Trim back overgrowth, patch bare spots, and clean up around the front door. Add fresh mulch, a bold front door color, and modern house numbers can give your home a fresh and polished look.
If the house is occupied, remember to declutter and simplify the space. Less is more. Style is subjective and items like doilies, ruffled curtains, or old faux plants can make a clean house feel tired. Decluttering and simplifying the space helps buyers imagine themselves living there. Make sure the pictures on the internet reflect the updates. Most buyers shop online first. Give them the best first impression possible!
Spend a little and gain a lot. The smallest of updates, like swapping cabinet hardware, replacing yellowed switch plates, or adding a new shower curtain ads instant appeal. Clean the windows, open the blinds, and swap in bright white bulbs. Mirrors and light rugs can help brighten darker rooms.
Clean like you mean it. Baseboards, grout, ceiling fans, windows, and vents; all of it. A spotless home reads as “well-maintained.” While you’re at it, tackle the garage and sweep out those cobwebs. The things you’ve grown used to are the very first things a buyer sees. Also make a daily habit of clearing the dishes, wiping down counters, and hiding bathroom items. When there’s a house showing, you want your space to seem well kept.
Scent matters. Open windows when you can, freshen rugs with baking soda (or remove them completely), and stash away pet blankets, bowls, and litter boxes. First impressions aren’t just visual. If you use a fragrance, opt for something fresh like citrus, linen, or eucalyptus.
In a slower market, standing out doesn’t mean you have to spend big bucks. If you’d like a second set of eyes and some budget-friendly advice, we’re always happy to help.
Be sure to check out our magazine for the latest updates on our North of the River communities and local sales statistics.
