“Pat went above and beyond to make this move as stress free as possible and her standard of service is above any…” L. Daclos
Call or Text (253) 444-7006
patg@windermere.com
Seller Mistakes
Selling your home can be exciting and challenging, especially if it's your first time. Avoid the common pitfalls and make your home selling experience less stressful. Don't inadvertently sabotage your sale! One of the most productive things you can do is connect with Pat to find out more details, let her walk you through the home listing process, set up a complementary seller's consultation or presentation.
Preparation
Ignoring the Exterior
Weather ages the exterior of your home over time. The paint on your home's exterior and the stain on your decks most likely accumulated a layer of grime. Before listing, pressure wash your house, decks, garage door, fence, patio, driveways, and walkways. Afterwards repaint and restrain areas that need it. Make your house look its best for the listing photos. Enhance its curb appeal.
Ignoring the Yard
To make a great first impression clean up your yard. Remove anything cluttering your yard, porch, or pathways (things like gardening equipment, toys, bicycle, etc.). Spruce up the yard by mowing, weeding, and planting some new flowers. Repair or replace damaged pathways. If you're too busy to do it yourself hire a landscaper. The results will be worth it. Studies have found that a home’s value tended to increase by as much as 10% or more after making upgrades to the landscaping.
Not Clearing Clutter
It's nearly impossible to show off the beauty of your home if it’s cluttered. Take care of piles of paperwork, scattered toys and unkempt furniture. And don’t forget pet toys, food areas, and beds. Clear surfaces, pack up clutter, eliminate odors, clean stains.
Not Cleaning Thoroughly
There’ no bigger turn off to buyers than touring a dirty house. It's unwelcoming and implicitly suggests neglect. Do a thorough, detailed cleaning or hire a professional cleaning company. A spotless home makes a great impression on potential buyers.
Not Cleaning Floors
Carpets, hardwoods and other flooring will show their age over time. It's easy not to notice as it happens so gradually. Potential buyers will notice. Consider refinishing your hardwood floors and definitely clean your carpets. Don't forget to take a look at your tile and linoleum flooring to see if it they need attention.
Mismatched Appliances & Hardware
While mismatched appliances won’t necessarily impact the overall sale price of your home, mismatched color schemes can put off many potential buyers. Make the kitchen an inspiration instead of an eye sore. Remember many appliance manufacturers offer coordinated sets and discounts if you purchase multiple appliances.
Not Carrying Proper Insurance
Make sure you’re insured in case a viewer has an accident on the premises and tries to sue you for damages. A homeowner's insurance policy should cover this but double check with your insurance agent. Make sure there are no obvious hazards on the property (like slippery, mossy decks or sidewalks, wobbly stairs in need of repair, or cluttered walkways. If you have a pool make sure the gate is locked. If you have a dog make sure it can't jump on or bite a visitor. Mitigate potential risks to protect potential buyers from injury and yourself from lawsuits.
*Disclaimer: Everything shared on any of our websites is for educational purposes only and are never recommendations! You alone are solely responsible for conducting your own independent research and due diligence before taking action. We assume no responsibility or liability for your decisions.
Call or Text (253) 444-7006
patg@windermere.com
