Preparing your home for sale to modern buyers

Adam Rynd
Owner and Designated Broker of Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate

Selling your home involves more than simply taking some photos and listing it. To maximize your chances of a successful sale, it’s important to prepare your home BEFORE putting it on the market. Let’s explore some key steps to ensure your home is attractive to modern buyers.  Proper preparation will minimize the risk of a sale failing and helps get you the best value for your home.

Move-In Ready Homes Are in Demand

Modern buyers are less willing to overlook minor repairs or cosmetic issues than in the past. While a small percentage of buyers may still be fine with a “fixer upper”, most people don’t have the time, skills, or patience to endure a renovation project, especially if they are first time homebuyers. Most modern buyers seek move-in ready homes that require minimal effort. 

Buyers often face a dilemma: Should they buy a fixer-upper at a lower price or invest in a move-in ready home? While a lower purchase price may seem appealing, buyers must factor in the time and money needed for repairs. Interest accumulates during renovations, affecting the overall cost. Living in a home while it’s being renovated can also be stressful and many buyers prefer paying more upfront for a hassle-free experience.

To meet this demand, consider the following:

• Address Deferred Maintenance: Before listing your home, tackle any deferred maintenance you know about. Fix leaky faucets, repair cracked tiles, and replace worn-out light fixtures. A well-maintained home signals to buyers that they won’t encounter unexpected problems later.
  
  

1. Get a Pre-Inspection: Financing requirements have become stricter, and inspections play a crucial role in successfully closing your home sale. Inspectors hired by buyers will assess the foundation, roof, electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC. Lenders will also pay attention to significant issues and some financing – especially federally-backed loans - require specialized inspections.

Getting an inspection before you list your home educates you about potential problems so they don’t become a surprise later in a transaction. Just understand that you must disclose any known issues to potential buyers.

You shouldn’t just fix what is broken, either. To make your home more appealing and more valuable, focus on updates that offer universal benefit and a great return on investment.

• Flooring: Replace worn-out carpet with new, neutral-colored carpeting. Modern laminates such as LVL (laminate veneer lumber) floors and even luxury vinyl are popular and add value. Material costs range from $1 - $5 per square foot, making flooring updates very cost-effective.
• Interior Paint: A fresh coat of paint instantly revitalizes a room. Stick to neutral tones to appeal to a broader audience. Again, the cost for fresh paint is relatively low compared to the positive impact.
• Bathrooms and Kitchens: Upgrade fixtures, faucets, countertops, and appliances. A modern kitchen and spa-like bathrooms enhance your home’s appeal.

The inside appeal of your home is critical, but don’t neglect the landscaping. Curb appeal matters! The first impression for a potential buyer (or real estate broker) is from the exterior. Mow the lawn regularly, trim landscaping shrubs and trees, and consider adding colorful flowers or plants to garden beds. Clean and declutter patios, decks, and walkways. It may also help to arrange outdoor furniture to create an inviting atmosphere.

Keep It Clean

A spotless home leaves a lasting impression. Consider professional cleaning services to prepare your home for listing, including cleaning carpets. While your home is on the market, keep it clean for potential showings:

• Every day, make beds, wipe down surfaces, and vacuum regularly. 
• Keep kitchen counters and hallways clutter-free.
• Avoid strong cooking smells. Use light air fresheners or open windows to keep the home smelling pleasant.

Hire Professionals

Consider hiring a professional real estate broker to assist with preparing your home for sale , bringing it to market, and representing your best interests through the sales process. Real estate brokers help you price your home competitively because they understand local trends and buyer preferences. They also likely have a range of resources, such as contractors, cleaners, photographers, etc. who will get your home in shape for listing.

Preparing your home for sale involves a combination of practical steps and professional assistance. By addressing deferred maintenance, making strategic home improvements, and keeping your home clean, you’ll be well on your way to a successful sale.

Remember, first impressions matter. Invest time and effort into presenting your home in the best possible light, and you’ll reap the rewards when the right buyer comes along.

Adam Rynd, a licensed real estate Managing Broker, is the Owner and Designated Broker of Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate