Preparing your home for sale doesn’t have to be expensive. Many impactful projects are low or no cost, ensuring your house makes a great impression on potential buyers.
1. Deep Clean Everywhere
A thorough deep cleaning is essential. Tackle often-overlooked areas such as:
- Hard-to-reach corners and under furniture
- The fronts, tops, and visible sides of appliances, including the top of the refrigerator
- Garage and closets to showcase ample storage space
- Windows, which should be spotless to maximize natural light
2. Fresh Paint
A fresh coat of paint offers the highest return on investment. It’s relatively inexpensive, especially if you do it yourself. Be sure to:
- Fill and sand any nail holes before painting
- Use neutral colors to appeal to a broader range of buyers
3. Handle Minor Repairs
Small repairs can make a significant difference. Address the minor issues that you’ve grown accustomed to, but new buyers will notice, such as:
- Tightening cabinet handles
- Fixing broken hinges
- Lubricating squeaky doors
- Replacing missing screws
Prioritize safety and security repairs, such as:
- Fixing loose railings
- Repairing windows or doors with broken locks
- Leveling uneven walkways
4. Stage Your Home
While hiring a professional stager can be costly, you can do several things yourself:
- Remove extra or oversized furniture to make spaces look larger
- Rearrange furniture to create inviting, spacious rooms
- Clear countertops and update light fixtures
- Maximize natural light to enhance room appeal
5. Boost Curb Appeal
First impressions start at the curb. Enhance your home’s exterior with basic, low-cost yard work:
- Mow and edge the lawn
- Apply fresh mulch and plant colorful flowers
- Clean sidewalks and trim shrubs and trees
- Stage the front porch with seating and potted plants
- Clean and, if necessary, paint the front door
6. Go Neutral
Appeal to the widest range of buyers by neutralizing your home’s interior:
- Remove personal décor, custom artwork, and souvenirs
- Opt for neutral colors and décor to help buyers envision themselves living in the space
Getting your home ready to sell involves some work, but it doesn’t require a lot of money. A little time and effort can significantly impact buyers, making them feel welcome and eager to make an offer.