List No Home Before Its Time

When you make the decision to sell your home, the impulse is to get it on the market right away. But that can be a costly mistake.

Instead, choose a listing agent and come to an agreement on the listing price. Then, before the first buyer or buyer's agent pulls up outside, do what the old folks used to call "Spring Cleaning."

Make everything from the ceilings to the floor sparkle with cleanliness. Get rid of clutter. Re-arrange the furniture to create a feeling of spaciousness and ease of movement throughout the house – even if it means moving a few pieces of furniture into storage for the time being. Take care of those little "fix-it" jobs that you might have been putting off.

Next, De-personalize so that prospective buyers can see themselves living in the house.

Then move outside and do the same.

You have only one chance to make a first impression, so make sure it’s a good one. And remember that the impression your house makes on buyers agents is important. If they bring buyers before the house is ready, they probably won't bring other buyers later on.

If you aren't sure about what matters most to buyers, call me. I speak with dozens of homebuyers each month and will be glad to share the insights I've gained from listening to them and watching their reactions as we tour homes.

Also, I have a comprehensive to-do list for sellers – and I'll be glad to share a copy with you. Just call or email us.

Looking forward to hearing from you,