I just took a long drive to the grand canyon over the weekend and I had time to write down some of the tips I find helpful when I’m selling a house without using a listing realtor.
The Outside of Your Home…
- Remove all yard debris, trim dead branches or shrubbery. If there is a tree or large shrub that blocks the view of the home, consider removing it. It has been said that, “if you can’t see it, you can’t sell it”; make sure potential buyers can see your home.
- Keep the grass cut neatly, and the walks and driveways edged.
- Replace any landscaping that is worn, old or overgrown. Installing new landscaping to the front of a house is one of the investments that gives the best return for your money. Remove old shrubs and add new one. Install landscaping edging to define the planting areas from the lawn. Add new wood garden mulch or decorative rocks to all planting areas.
- Repair any cracks in the walks and driveway. Seal coat the driveway.
- If there is wooden decking, make sure there are no creaks, squeaks, loose steps or railings. Replace worn boards. Then power wash entire deck and stain or seal all surfaces.
- Make sure outside lights are clean and operable. Remove glass covers and wash out bugs and dirt. Install high watt bulbs.
- If paint is peeling, consider repainting. A fresh coat of paint is a remarkable transformation even if you only repaint the trim or front of the home.
- Paint, or replace gutters.
- All yard and garden tools and outdoor toys should be put away. Get rid of things in your yard that show off your personality. Make a neutral impression on buyers.
- The front porch sets the scene as people enter a home. Make sure it is clean and inviting. Placing a new doormat and a flowering plant will produce a welcoming atmosphere.
- The front door is very important! Make sure the screens are clean and without holes or tears. The glass in the storm door and the front door should sparkle. Clean and paint the front door, and polish the brass. Oil the hinges to eliminate any squeaks. Make any adjustments necessary to ensure the door swings freely and easily.
- Make sure the doorbell is operable.
- Wash all the homes windows inside and outside and clean all dirty window screens.
Here is a list of resources for getting a written appraisal when you want to determine a price to list the house at -
Mortgage brokers and lenders are a good source for referring licensed real estate appraisers. They will refer you to the people that they use when they order an appraisal before they consider approving a loan. You may be able to have your buyer use the same appraisal if they work with your mortgage broker or lender.
Independent licensed real estate appraisers can be found in every state at,
www.appraisers.com
