If you’re looking to sell your home, you likely want it to sell as quickly as possible – especially since the longer a house sits on the market, the harder it can be to sell.
Here are 12 tricks to sell your home fast:
1. Price it right
Find out the true value of your home, and then consider listing it for a lower amount. Depending on the housing market in your area, you could get more interest from buyers – bidding up the price to what you really wanted. For home values, check online home value estimator tools like Zillow.com and Redfin.com.
2. Choose the right agent
Do your research before hiring a real estate agent. Agents should have an excellent track record that includes recent sales and be up-to-date on market trends. Be sure to ask for references and credentials, too.
3. Let the light shine
Change your lampshades and use the maximum possible wattage for every light fixture in your home. You can also scrub your windows, remove the drapes and let the sunshine in.
4. Rent a storage unit
You want your house to be clutter-free and your closets to look as spacious as possible. To do this, you’ll probably need to get rid of half the stuff around your home and in your closets. Consider renting a mini storage unit to store your extra stuff until your house sells.
5. Amp up your curb appeal
Attract buyers by sprucing up the exterior of your home. Splurge on a striking patio set, trim your shrubs and plant some pretty flowers along your walkway.
6. Focus on the kitchen
The kitchen is where it’s at. Depending on the state of your kitchen, you might want to do a quick remodel, including a fresh coat of paint, new cabinets and more. Remember: A buyer can easily shave $10,000 off the asking price by claiming your kitchen is outdated.
7. Upgrade – but don’t go overboard
It’s OK to do some light remodeling throughout your home, but don’t go overboard. A paint job, new light fixtures, door handles and rugs can do the trick.
8. Make it impersonal
Get rid of your personal items before showing your home. You want visitors to envision their own belongings here – not yours.
9. Market it yourself
Be your own best agent. Let everyone and their neighbor know you’re selling your home and be sure to speak in glowing terms about your house to anyone who asks for details.
10. Make it sparkle
Don’t skimp on this one! Give your entire home a deep cleaning before showing it to buyers.
11. Hide your pets
Not everyone is an animal lover. If you’ve got some furry critters at home, hide the evidence! If you’re hosting an open house, send your pets to a friend’s place for the day.
12. Hire a professional
Consider hiring professional help for staging and photographing your home.
You’re all set! Now get out there and put your home’s best face forward!
Your Turn: Have you recently sold your home? Tell us how you made it happen! Share your best tips and tricks with us in the comments!