Moving On Up… To a Higher Resale Value

If you’re considering upgrading your life with a new home and plan to put your current home on the market, take advantage of these tips to get the most for your home and help it sell quickly.
Cut the Clutter
One of the simplest tricks to present your home in the most appealing light is to tidy up and declutter. While this may sound like a daunting project, it doesn’t need to be. Take a look around your home and remove all those extra items that we allow to pile up, but tend to overlook. Are you guilty of creating a drop zone for your keys, bills and phone on the kitchen countertop? Or, maybe your desk is buried under a pile of papers and that growing collection of Precious Moments figurines is prominently displayed on each and every flat surface in your home. While all this clutter may not bother you, it can be a big distraction to a potential buyer who wants to see all the beautiful features of your house – not your stuff – and feel that they have finally found their new “home.”
Create a Clean Slate

Create a Clean Slate
Another big factor to think about when preparing to put your home on the market is its overall cleanliness. According to Consumer Reports, this simple tidbit can deliver a 3 to 5 percent return on your investment, which means it’s probably a good idea to channel your inner Mr. Clean and tackle a few chores like washing the windows (on the inside and out), cleaning the blinds and baseboards, or using a little elbow grease to make your tile floors and grout sparkle. Using a critical eye - don’t forget about all those small nooks and crannies that we rarely take the time to clean. Go ahead… Take a peek at the top of the refrigerator, run a dust rag along the door frame or maybe wipe down the top of your kitchen cabinets. Isn’t it surprising to see how much dust can accumulate in such a tiny space? That’s why we should take the time to give these neglected areas some attention, too. If you’re short on time, or maybe you don’t like to clean, another option is to hire a professional cleaning service for a thorough top-to-bottom scrubbing.
Make a Good Impression
Buyers will judge your home before they ever walk in your front door, so ensure your curb appeal makes a great first impression. From a freshly cut lawn to a tidy flower bed, these little details make a big difference. Taking a bit of time to trim shrubs, pull weeds and plant a few colorful flowers will go a long way toward creating an inviting feeling. Once a prospective buyer enters your home, you can also evoke that feeling in the entryway with flowers or the smell of freshly baked cookies.
Make a Good Impression

The Difference is in the Details

The Difference is in the Details
You’ve heard it before… A fresh coat of paint is a quick way to make a big impact. And that sage advice (see what we did there?) also holds true when selling your home. Scratched walls and baseboards – or perhaps some unwanted artwork courtesy of your overzealous child – can age a home dramatically. And, while your statement-making red dining room makes you swoon, it can be a turn off to potential buyers. Instead, it’s a good idea to opt for a more neutral hue in a not-so-shocking shade of taupe or grey.
In the Right Light
A bright and cheery home tends to sell quicker than a dark, drab home that feels small and uninviting. Take this opportunity to remove heavy draperies and open the blinds to allow natural light to flood your home. Increasing the wattage on the light bulbs in your fixtures can also add an inviting brightness to any cozy space. Consider adding additional lamps and up lights that will provide accent lighting in a darker space or draw attention to a focal point, such as built-in shelving or a mantle.
By showcasing your home in the best light, you’re sure to get it sold quickly – and maximize your profits!