Maximizing Your Home Value

Are you ready to list your home for sale? One of the first questions you might have is, “how can I maximize my home value?” Every seller wants to get the best possible price for their home; fortunately there are ways to make sure your potential buyers see the true value of your property and allow you to receive top dollar when you sell.

? Clean, declutter, depersonalize – The first thing every home seller needs to do is take a critical look at the home and clear out the distractions. Cleaning the home/yard is a must. Remove anything that can draw a buyer’s eye away from the beauty of the home.

? Redecorate – Professional home stagers will often advise clients to remove and/or replace furnishings. Even if you love oversized furniture, it can make the room look small; consider renting more neutral pieces during the listing.

? Perfect Condition – No home is perfect, but before you list take care of deferred maintenance issues. Replace missing roof tiles, repaint any area that is worn or dirty, and re-sod your lawn; remember; buyers want to know the home has “good bones.”

? Update carefully – It’s not important for home sellers to have the latest countertops or custom bathtub to get a good value for their home. Often the home updates/improvements sellers undergo cost more than they would lose in sales price without them. If your home is very dated, consider a seller credit instead to allow the buyer to choose their own upgrades.

Homes retain value based on a few factors; the location, the condition and the features. Before you list, speak with your agent, friends and family – then make any necessary repairs and changes to ensure you get the best value for your home when you sell.