What Steps to Take Before Selling a House

Are you considering selling your house? It is a major decision that requires careful planning and preparation. Before you put that “For Sale” sign up, there are some things you should consider doing to ensure everything goes well during the selling process. In this blog, we are going to provide a comprehensive checklist of things you should do before selling your house.
 

Deep Clean your House

A clean and well-maintained home is more likely to attract buyers. Pay special attention to the most used areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Recaulk these rooms to give them a fresh and clean look. Clean the carpets and rugs to eliminate stains and odours. Tidy up each room, including cabinets and closets. Hiring a professional cleaning service can make the process easier.
 

Repaint the House

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the appearance of your home. Repainting walls with natural colours, such as white or beige, will appeal to the buyers. Repaint rooms with unconventional colours like classic grey or pale green to create a more appealing look. Don’t forget to touch up the trim and moulding as well. Update outdated or worn cabinetry with a fresh paint job to improve the overall appeal of your kitchen or bathroom.

Address Small Repairs

Fixing small repairs throughout your home can make a big difference in its overall presentation. Replace broken or outdated hardware, such as door handles, faucets, towel bars, and curtain rods. Fix electrical or plumbing issues and repair any visible damage to walls, ceilings, or floors. These minor updates can be done relatively inexpensively and improve the functionality and safety of your home. Buyers appreciate the attention to detail and well-maintained property. Remember, a home in good condition will attract potential buyers and command a higher sale price.

Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

Outdated lighting fixtures can make your home feel outdated. Upgrade your light fixtures to create a more modern and appealing atmosphere. Choose fixtures matching your home’s overall aesthetic and consider appropriate lighting for specific areas. Ambient lighting can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while directional lighting can highlight key features of each room.

Add a Touch of Luxury to the Bathroom

The bathroom is an area in a home that can influence buyers’ opinions. Make your bathroom shine by creating a spa-like ambience. Consider adding luxurious touches such as a soaking tub, fluffy towels, and scented candles. These additions will make potential buyers feel pampered and increase the overall desirability of your home.
 

Pay Attention to Window Treatments

Window treatments not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but also affect the amount of natural light entering each room. Ensure you have the right window treatments that enhance brightness and complement your home’s overall style. Adjust window treatments accordingly during showings to create the desired ambience. Properly chosen and maintained window treatments can improve the overall appeal of your home.

Declutter and Depersonalise Your Space

Clutter can make your home appear smaller and less attractive. Remove unnecessary items, such as excess furniture, personal belongings, and knick-knacks. You may rent a storage unit to temporarily store these items and create a more spacious and organised look.
 

Check out these 10 Best Small House Design Hacks to Maximise Your Space

Depersonalising your space is equally important. Buyers want to envision themselves living in your house, so remove any personal photographs or unique decor that may distract them. Keep the design neutral and inviting to allow potential buyers to imagine their belongings in the space.

Arrange a Home Inspection

Home inspections are a standard part of the selling process. Consider the following:
 

• Get a pre-listing inspection to identify any hidden problems and address them before potential buyers conduct their inspections.
• If the buyer’s inspection reveals any issues, be prepared to negotiate repair requests.
• Disclose any known issues or defects to establish trust with the buyer and reduce the likelihood of legal complications in the future.

Brag About Amenities

If your home is in a walkable neighbourhood with amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, parks, or public transportation, highlight these features. Create a list of positive aspects of your home’s neighbourhood and leave it for buyers to review. Amenities can impact a home’s price, so don’t overlook this valuable selling point.
 

Incorporate Technology

Adding smart home technology can be an attractive upgrade for younger buyers. Install a smart thermostat or fixtures that can be controlled from a smartphone. These modern touches can make your home stand out and appeal to tech-savvy buyers.
 

Organise Finances

Before selling your house, it is important to get your finances in order. Proper organisation will help you avoid last-minute delays during the sales process. Follow these steps to avoid delays:
 

Review Mortgage

If you still have an outstanding mortgage, review its terms and conditions. Determine if there are any prepayment penalties or fees associated with early repayment. Doing so will help you estimate the amount you will receive from the sale.

Calculate Costs

Selling a house involves various costs, such as real estate agent commission, closing fees, and repairs. Calculate these costs in advance to ensure you clearly understand the financial implications.
 

Gather Documents

Collect all the necessary documents related to your property, like the title deed, mortgage documents, and permits. Having these documents readily available will streamline the selling process.
 

Additional Considerations

There are a few more things to consider before selling your home. They are:

• Price your home by researching recent sales in your area and consult your real estate agent to determine the appropriate listing price.
• Buyers may negotiate the price, so set an asking price that allows for some flexibility, as this can attract more offers and lead to a successful sale.
• Take clear and professional photographs of the house because they attract buyers and generate interest.
• If your house has structural issues like a leaky roof or a cracked foundation, fix them before selling.

Following and completing these steps can increase your chances of selling your house quickly and fetching a higher sale price. We suggest consulting your real estate agent for personalised advice and guidance throughout the selling process. Proper preparation, organisation, and attention to detail can make all the difference in attracting buyers and selling your home at a good price.