Selling your home is a marathon, not a sprint. It is a big decision that can take years of dreaming, years of waiting for home values to return, and second-guessing yourself. The housing market has rebounded, and the time to sell is now. Home prices are up, interest rates are low (but rising), and inventory is tight.
Open houses are exciting, but they come with a set of rules. While they can be fun, they require prep work and attention to detail. Here is a list of things you should do before your next open house:
Show Off Your Foyer
If you have one, be sure to stage it. Install coat hooks for guests, provide a bench for removing shoes, and set the tone with something fresh (a vase of flowers or a table with bottled water). This room is for receiving guests, so be sure that it makes everyone feel welcome.
Create a Dreamy Laundry Room
Laundry rooms are one of the most desirable rooms in the house. Take a look at any home magazine. We are fantasizing about organized shelves, granite countertops for folding clothes, and a place to house an ironing board. You can easily update your laundry room by painting the walls, stocking the shelves, and displaying perfectly folded towels.
Declutter The Garage
No one expects your garage to look perfect, but it should be accessible. There is no need to stage it, but we suggest decluttering the space so buyers can get in.
Brighten The Hallways
Make them bright. Replace the lightbulbs and paint the walls (a neutral color) to keep people interested as they walk from one to to the next.
Stage The Bedside Tables
Ditch the magazines and the tangled iPhone chargers, and replace them with a simple clock, a decorative vase, and a book or two.
Make Your Appliances Shine
If you have stainless steel appliances, take care of them properly. Wipe them down with the proper cleaning supplies. Don’t forget to clean up the stovetop from pan drippings.
For more information on how to prepare your house for an open house click here.
