Kathie Carswell Saratoga Springs, New York Real Estate Agent
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How do I prepare my home to sell?

First impressions will last long after the buyer has left your home
It is so important that the first impression a buyer has of your home is a good one. The very first thing to do before you list is to evaluate the exterior of your home. Does your home have good curb appeal to keep a buyer from just driving by? Consider some colorful plants or flowers if the season allows, or some tasteful decorations during the holiday season. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged and the yard free of refuse. During the winter, keep the driveway plowed and the walk shoveled and salted to avoid spills.

The front door greets the buyer. Make sure that it is fresh and clean, and painted if needed. All light fixtures should be clean and in working order. Replace bulbs in necessary.

Light and bright sells
Open drapes and blinds for maximum light. Turn lights on when you know there will be a showing. Replace all burned out bulbs. The key is to make your home as cheerful and inviting as possible!

Small repairs can make a big difference
Fix loose knobs, sticking or squeaking doors, warped cabinet drawers (yes, they will open drawers!), cracks in your plaster, and any other minor flaws that will detract from the overall appeal of the home. Many buyers believe there will be ten problems they haven't noticed for every one they do see.

Paint for a quick sale
If you walls are faded or have extensive marks, consider giving them a fresh coat of paint. Although it can be time consuming, painting is an inexpensive way to make your home feel fresh and new.

Make closets look bigger
Buyers need to feel that they will have plenty of space for all of the items we tend to accumulate these days. Organize your closets and remove and unnecessary items. This applies to your garage and all other rooms in your house. Make increasing the feeling of space your top priority!

Is the age of your home apparent?
Sometimes minor redecorating is recommended if certain elements of your home are attributing to an outdated look. Dark wood, shag or worn carpet, and wallpaper can be turnoffs even if the rest of your house is in great condition. At our preliminary listing appointment, I can give you ideas which have proven to sell a home faster and at a higher price.

Pride of ownership sells
Cleanliness attracts buyers. That extra touch will pay off big. When you know you will have a showing, you may consider fresh cut flowers placed in key area of your home, soft music, and attractive potpourri scents or air fresheners. If you love to bake and time allows, pop some cookies or an apple pie in the oven. If the buyers feel a sense of home when they tour your home, they will want to stay for good!

Three's a crowd
Buyers and their agents prefer privacy when they tour your home. They want to feel that they can talk openly without hurting your feelings. Whenever possible, never stay in your house during showings. The buyer will feel more relaxed if you are not present. It if is necessary for you or someone from your family to stay, don't discuss price or terms. Silence is golden. If there are questions or concerns, refer them to me at all times.

Availability is key
Please always keep me in the know of your schedule including any vacations or business trips you may be taking. Provide me with all numbers for me to use when I need to reach you, as well as alternate numbers when you are away. I will always call you with as much notice as I am given for showings of your home.

 

Welcome to Peace of Mind with the Home Trust Warranty
Buying and selling a home is one of the biggest transactions you will make in your lifetime. You owe it to yourself to protect your investment with a pre-owned home warranty from HomeTrust Warranty.

A HomeTrust Warranty protects you and your family against financial setbacks due to costly repair or replacement of covered appliances and major systems. The HomeTrust Warranty protects the seller during the listing period and the buyer for a full year, beginning the day of closing. With so many unknowns, a HomeTrust Warranty gives you peace-of-mind.

HomeTrust makes your repair process easy. We make the call to arrange for a licensed and insured contractor to take care of your problem. You pay just a small deductible. Our Customer-Care Centers are open to serve you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Click on the link below for more information on how to make the sale of your home smooth and worry free!

 

 

 

Kathie's
Designations


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CBR

seniors real estate specialist

Realty USA

Realtor


Realty USA
505 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 ::: 518-580-9600 office ::: 518-584-2107 fax
kathie@kathiecarswell.com