Moving is an exciting time, full of new opportunities and experiences. There’s one important thing that must be done before the adventures can start- you need to sell your home. One of the best ways to get buyers through your front door is to hold an open house. We’ve compiled the top six ways to prepare for an open house that is sure to impress.
1. A clean house is a happy house.
Buyers don’t want to walk into a home that is full of grime and clutter. Give your home a good scrubbing before the open house. Wipe down baseboards, make sure the sinks are shining, use a cleaner specially-formulated to make wood floors gleam, and wash all linens including any window treatments. A thorough cleaning will make your house look and smell fresh.
2. Set the stage.
A potential home buyer wants to be able to imagine themselves living in your home, which is why it’s important to remove as many personal mementos as possible. You may want to consider hiring a professional home stager who can bring in neutral furniture and decor and correct any glaring issues that may turn off buyers.
3. Maximize curb appeal.
First impressions are lasting and the first thing people attending your open house will see is the home’s exterior. Make sure the lawn is mowed, gutters are clear, and there no garbage cans visible from the curb. Also fix up any exterior paint that might need tending and add some attractive flowers to really make the home’s exterior shine.
4. The nose knows.
A home filled with musty odors is an instant turnoff. You may not even notice that your home has an odor because you’ve become accustomed to it. Place deodorizers throughout the home and have candles burning during the open house to eliminate any odors that might be present.
5. Get the word out.
The more people that walk through the door during your open house, the more likely you are to receive an offer. Make sure your realtor is advertising for the open house with plenty of signage.
6. Go big or go home.
Over-the-top open houses are becoming a popular trend. Your realtor can hold a joint open house with a broker that brings in their own clientele to tour the home. They will often provide refreshments in addition to attractive flyers.
An open house is the perfect time to put all of your home’s perks on display. Accentuating the positives and correcting the negatives will have your home sold in no time. Then you can move on to your next great adventure knowing your former home is in good hands.
