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The Local Element West Michigan

Real Estate Agency in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
616.202.6551

Preparing to Sell Your Home

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Chances are you landed here because of a change in lifestyle and are looking to sell your house. Whether you are relocating for a new job, need more space, are going through a divorce, or nearing retirement and want to downsize, this set of guidelines will help you sell your home fast and for top dollar.  

Key Points

  • Careful planning will help your home sell fast and for top dollar. 
  • Showing your home to prospective buyers will require you to make the proper repairs, thoughtfully clean the home, and organize the home in an organized fashion.
  • Your top priority should be to make it as easy as possible for prospective buyers to envision themselves in your home.
Free 30 day Guide for getting your home preped to sell
Clean, clean, clean!

A deep clean is crucial because buyers want to envision what the home will look like when they are living there. 

Start by doing a deep cleaning of your home. This includes dusting all surfaces, light fixtures, shelves, etc. Additionally, be sure to scrub your windows on the interior and exterior sides. Lastly shampooing any carpet and mopping hardwood and tile floors will leave your home sparkling.

If you want to go the extra mile and have your home stand out to buyers, hire a company to come and clean your air ducts! We have a local company that does a phenomenal job. Shout us an email to get a coupon code!

Depersonalize & Declutter

If you truly want your home to appeal to many buyers, allow them to picture their own things in your home. This means getting all family photos, collectibles, and knick-knacks out of sight and in storage. 

You will want to clean the closets, bathrooms, and bedrooms of all personal items as well. This is a great time to donate clothing items you have been holding onto and keep the ones you truly can’t live without. It is a good idea to keep toiletries and clothing out of eyesight so that potential buyers can visualize what they can do with the space. 

Repairs and Maintenance

If you have been putting off minor repairs it is time to get em’ done! First and foremost, be sure to fix any issues that are visible. Including leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or holes in the walls from picture frames or other hanging decor.  It is also a good idea to ensure that all your appliances work correctly. Bring in or hire someone to help if you can’t do all the repairs by yourself. Need a recommendation for a local service producer? We know a few stellar people who can help!

Lastly, and probably your least favorite, it is time to paint. A fresh coat of paint goes a long way! If you don’t want to paint the entire interior, consider touching up a few spots that have scratches or marks on them. Not sure which colors to pick? According to Southern Living, “neutral colors like shades of white, beige, taupe, and grays lead to a faster sale,”.

paint-shades-to-help-sell-your-home-faster
Curb Appeal

First impressions matter! The exterior of your home sets the tone for the potential buyers’ perception of the entire property. A well-maintained and inviting entrance will pique buyers’ interest and make them more likely to explore further. Landscaping, the front door, and siding are the top 3 things to focus on when considering curb appeal.

You can enhance the curb appeal of your home by making a few improvements to the lawn such as weeding, trimming the hedges, and making sure the grass is cut. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint or siding will increase the property value of your home. As for the entryway, consider replacing the door or even painting it. A final touch that will make your home stand out is a cute and seasonal door ornament.  

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The time and money you invest into your home’s exterior will be sure to pay off in terms of a quicker sale and a higher selling price

Staging Your Home

If you are looking to go the extra mile to ensure your home sells fast, you will want to consider staging your home. A home that is staged creates an emotional connection with potential buyers. Using warm and inviting decor will make buyers feel more at home when they view your home. If you are looking for a recommendation for a local professional stager or interior designer check out our list of service pros we love!

If you are looking to pick up a few new pieces and stage the home yourself, check out Stoffer Home in their Wealthy Street location or browse their online storefront. 

stoffer-home
Photo Courtsey of Stoffer Home's Instagram Page

However, if you are not quite a design expert or have an eccentric decor taste, you may want to consider hiring a stager. Lucky for you, we know a fantastic real estate agent and stager! — Scroll to the bottom of the page, fill out the form, and be sure to mention you are looking for a person to help stage your home.

Set the Right Price

Setting the right price is crucial for many reasons. If your home is priced to high it will sit on the market, but if it is priced too low you risk not making as much money as you could.

Hiring a Realtor is key to pricing your home at its true value. These licensed experts will help you determine the right asking price for your home based on the sale of similar homes in your area. This comparative market analysis (CMA) will ensure your home is set at the correct price. 

Real Estate Agents also have the negotiation skills, legal protection, and marketing expertise that will help your home selling experience go smoothly.

Connect with a Local Agent to Home Selling Journey

Selling in West Michigan

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