Insights

If you're getting ready to sell your home, you've most likely already given it a great deal of thought. While you may think you know the basics, such as keeping any personal items out of sight and removing clutter, there is a lot more to selling your home than you may have originally thought.

Potential buyers can fall in or out of love with your house for a variety of reasons. Here we tell you some important strategies for getting your home ready to sell — and making it irresistible to everyone who comes to view it.

Tips for maximizing your home’s appeal

There are many steps you can take to make your house as appealing as possible to potential buyers. Some tips you may not have thought of include to:

Disassociate yourself with your home

It may sound obvious, but it's surprising how many people do not do these:

• Tell yourself that this is no longer your home, and that it is a product to be sold.
• Make the decision to let go of your attachment to the space.
• Say goodbye to each room.
• Envision yourself handing over the keys to the new owners.
• Look forward to this new stage of your life.

De-personalize

Before you show your house, ensure that you pack up all your knick-knacks, family heirlooms and photos. When a buyer enters your house and sees personal effects, they immediately see the space as exclusively yours, rather than a place that they will want to live in.

De-clutter

Take an objective look at your house and identify any items that can be either donated, sold or discarded. Also:

• Clear your kitchen counters.
• Remove books from shelves.
• Place all essential items in a box and store them away.

Re-arrange closets and kitchen cabinets

Organize all of your closets and cabinets to impress even the most observant of buyers.

Make minor repairs

You may not even have realized that your home needs a little TLC, so go around with a friend and spot and fix anything that needs fixing, such as leaky faucets, squeaky doors or loose knobs.

Rent a storage unit

If you have clutter in your home, consider renting a storage unit. Storing away bulky items of furniture will open up your house, making it far more attractive to potential buyers. Clearing away knick-knacks and excess furniture will also make your home photos more appealing.

Clean your home

Spring clean your home from top to bottom so buyers will find your space clean, sweet smelling and attractive.

Improve the outdoor space

Ensure that your yard is well-maintained and attractive. Check all exterior window and door frames, and paint any that look past their prime. Also, make sure your house number is clearly visible from the road.

Lighten and brighten

The lighter and brighter your house looks, the more appealing it will be to buyers. Be sure to let as much natural light in as possible, and consider repainting white trim and other walls to make them stand out and look fresh.

Have a good showing

If you have a Realtor, he or she may handle the showing of your home to prospects while you are not there. If you are in fact present during a showing, there are a few tips you should remember:

• Give prospective buyers space to explore your house.
• Explain what’s included with the house.
• Be truthful about your house.

Selling your house can be difficult emotionally if you have spent a great deal of time in your home and have made countless memories there. However, through following the above hints and tips, you can ensure you will show your home off in the greatest light, as well as get the best price possible.