How to Sell My House Fast

Selling a house can be tricky and time consuming, and almost impossible in some parts of the country. In today's real estate market, a house really needs to be impressive to attract a buyer. Here are some steps you can take to get your house in top shape for marketing so that you can sell it quickly and get the highest offer possible.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Make any needed repairs before you list your house for sale. Replace torn window screens, dripping faucets, damaged decking or siding. Evaluate your carpet and determine whether it needs replacing.

2. Organize closets and cabinets and pack up any extra belongings and even furniture you can live without temporarily. Rent a storage unit to hold your things or ask a relative to store them for you. This will make your home look orderly and spacious. Get rid of all clutter in sight, inside closets and in cabinets. Your home should look like a magazine layout.

3. Clean, clean, clean! Clean the carpet, wax your floors. Clean the oven, replace drip pans on your stove, clean the shower grout. Paint if needed, inside and out. Make sure everything is spotless inside and out when you show your home.

4. 
    
   Attractive Entrance Will Sell My House Fast

   Pay special attention to the entrance areas of your home. Sweep the walkway and porches. Plant some flowers in a pot near the front door. Make sure the doorbell works and the hardware on the door is polished, not rusty. Paint or clean the door itself. Make sure the foyer is welcoming and clean also. Add lighting, a floral arrangement and a small table or chair if there is room.

5. Make sure there is enough lighting. Add higher watt bulbs and open the drapes or blinds. Brightly lit rooms are cheery and uplifting. Dark rooms are depressing and will make potential buyers feel like you are trying to hide something from them.

6. Give your house a sniff test. Use a lightly scented air freshener if needed, or simply open the windows for some cleansing, fresh air. A few drops of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon in the oven or in a tea kettle can spread a pleasant fragrance throughout your home.

7. Stay out of the way! Leave the home when it is being shown, so the potential buyers can have a thorough tour without feeling like intruders. Your buyers need some time and space to imagine themselves living in your home, and that is much easier to do if you are not there confusing their day-dreams. If they have questions for you, their realtor will contact you later.

Tips & Warnings

• Before painting or purchasing new carpet, check with your realtor for color recommendations that sell in your market.
• Be sure to remove jewelry or other valuable personal property before listing your home for sale.

[vickymom64]

on 11/23/2009 Very good article!