Ever wondered why identical homes don’t always command the same price when they are being sold? Why is it that some properties sell fast while others appear to take an eternity?

As we all know, sellers would like to procure good prices or ‘top dollar’ for their property. It goes without saying that as sellers, we also want to sell the property equally fast. It may appear that luck is the key in netting a good price as well as a fast sale. However, this is far from true.

The key is home improvements done with careful planning, intelligently and professionally! This way, you spruce up your property to make sure that it appeals to potential buyers and nets a good bargain price. However, home improvements themselves will not be able to ensure a fast sale for you. Therefore, you also need to market your property in whatever manner possible so that buyers know that you have a fantastic and irresistible property out for sale!

Home improvements, not only make your property appealing to buyers but also add immense value to them. You get twin benefits… selling for top dollar and a fast sale. When making home improvements, be clear of your target audience. Improvements you make need to be in line with that audience else they run the risk of either not adding value at all or even worse, degrading value of your property. For example, adding a swimming pool may make sense in Florida but may not be a value-add in Minnesota.

Here are a few tips:-

• De-link yourself emotionally from your property. Look at it as a product.
• Remove any “personal” stuff from the property. Buyers want to visualize the property as theirs with their family photographs and heirlooms hanging on the walls.
• De-clutter anything that is not required in the property. This makes it appear spacious and well maintained.
• Re-arrange cupboards and closets. You don’t want a seller to open a closet and see all kinds of things falling out of it.
• Re-look your furniture… remove anything that will make the property appear spacious. The less furniture, the better. Also, you do not want furniture clogging passage-ways, rooms, etc.
• Remove everything in the property that you don’t want to sell to your potential buyer. If sellers don’t see it, they will not want it!
• Make necessary repairs to your home to ensure it is in good condition. Be realistic. Perfection is not required. Remember, you are going to part with it sooner or later.
• Your house should be clean and sparkling. Wash mirrors, windows and floors thoroughly. No cobwebs! Tubs, showers and sinks should be up and running. Dust your home. Check your rugs and carpets. Open up the house to let fresh air come in.
• Disconnect yourself as owner of the property. Review the property impartially! Would you buy it? What do you like? WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? How much would you pay? Work on solutions for the problem areas you got from your answers.

Think about it and share ideas from other sellers as well. All the best and may you get a good deal and a fast sale!