It is estimated that only 10% of home buyers can visualize the potential of a home - that means 90% are not going to be able to look past dirt, clutter, and imperfections. Careful attention to staging can turn an average property into a sought after property with multiple offers.
Cathy has completed her staging certification and is highly qualified to assist our Team Berkhout Bosse home sellers to prepare their homes for the market. We also have a professional Home Stager that we partner with to provide more in depth services.
Analyzing the Condition of Your Home
With a critical eye, examine you home inside and out. Determine if there are any small repairs or underlying problems that you are aware of. Any small repairs that you are able to complete will help negotiate with buyers. If there are any major repairs, like a leaky basement, it is imperative that you bring this to our attention.
Kitchen and Bathroom
Put extra emphasis on your kitchen and bathroom. Replace moldy shower curtains and clean mold and mildew off of bathroom tiles. Caulk if necessary. Repair leaky faucets and replace cracked toilet seats. Ensure that the toilet flushes properly. Make certain that the drains are unclogged. Everything should sparkle -- faucets, floors, counters, mirrors. What can be cleaned should be!
In the kitchen, clean the stove and refrigerator, organize the cupboards and wash the floor. Make certain your appliances work. Wipe the walls, touch-up paint or re-stick wall paper if necessary. Clean the sink and ensure that it drains properly and the faucet doesn't leak. (When your home is shown, make sure there are no dirty dishes in the sink and don't forget to take out garbage !)
Floors and Stairs
Check your floors and stairs for anything that needs to be repaired or replaced. You are able to remove and replace damaged tiles individually, and there are plenty of DIY fixes available at your local hardware store.
Doors and Windows
Exterior windows and doors quickly get a weathered look from exposure to the Canadian climate. Consider repainting any surfaces that appear faded or damaged. Also, review your interior window trim to see if a quick coat of paint can resolve any scuffs and smudges.
Basement
If your basement is finished, tidy it in the same manner as the rest of your home. An unfinished basement is an opportunity for you to showcase the potential your home has to a potential buyer. If you currently use your basement as a storage area, organize any clutter and store boxes neatly to best showcase your home.
Clutter
An organized and clean home will appear larger. Ensure that clutter is not just hidden, but organized is the best approach. Buyers will look in drawers, cabinets and closets. Hiding the clutter in those places will make them seem smaller and overcrowded.