Most home sellers want to sell their house as quickly as possible. Nothing is worse than having a piece of property lingering in the marketplace. Buyers can begin to think that something is wrong with it. There are a few easy do-it-yourself projects owners can do to prep their property for a fast sale.
1. Tidy up the Landscaping
If your grass is bare in spots, fill in the patches with quick-growing seeds or grain. Check with your local nursery to find out what type of grass will sprout quickly in your environment. Before spreading it, water and loosen the dry spots then add the mixture. This will prevent the birds from eating all of them, and do not let the earth dry out.
Keep the remaining grass mowed and the edges trimmed. Rake up the leaves every day, and if you have room, plant some colorful flowers in the front. If you do not have a flowerbed, put some decorative pots on the front porch that are overflowing with greenery or flowers.
2. Paint the Front Door
The lawn, driveway, and the front door will be the first thing potential buyers see, so make them pop. Wash off your front door, and if it looks dull or scratched, refresh it with some exterior paint. If you are going to change the color, apply a primer coat first. This will prevent the old color from bleeding through. It is possible to paint the front of the door without removing it. Keep it open while you paint so you can easily reach the edges and mask off the doorknob and eye hole.
3. Wash the Windows
Clean windows can make a significant difference when the buyers look outside. Dusty or dirty windows dull the appearance. Wash the interior and exterior for the maximum effect. There are plenty of brand-name products readily available, or you can make your own cleaner with vinegar. The recipe is 50/50 water to vinegar.
4. Clean the Counters Off
It might be convenient to have appliances across your kitchen counter, but while the home is for sale, tuck them away. Leave the countertop as bare as possible. The items that you do leave on it should be clean and organized.
5. Organize Closets and Cupboards
Buyers will naturally open kitchen and closet doors, not to look at your belongings, but to see if their items will fit. When they look inside, if they see neatly organized cans, towels, and coats, they will get the feeling the property is clean. It is also an excellent time to get rid of or donate things you no longer want, use, or need.
When your house is up for sale, you only have that one chance to make a good first impression. Make it easy for the buyer to fall in love with your property. When they first approach the home, you want to give them the sense that the house is well cared for.