Vicki Aubry, Realtor, ABR, SRES, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
You might think that buyers are not out at this time of year but…think again! Rates are currently in the high 3s or low 4s but who knows for how much longer? Buyers that were pre-approved in the fall but did not find the right house are still out there looking. Those that list their homes early in the year will grab those coveted buyers, but to attract the right buyer there are things you must know…. buyers are looking for the whole package when purchasing a home! And they will continue to look until they find it!
Sellers need to truly understand this otherwise they will be selling their neighbors homes for them instead of their own!
So…What do buyers really want?
Buyers want a floor plan that works for them.
They want as large a home as they can afford so overall square footage is important but the most important thing is the room sizes. This means that extra furniture needs to be removed in smaller rooms for a more spacious look. Especially important are countertops and closets – these areas must be organized and show the feeling of extra space.
Buyers want updated homes!
For those sellers that do not have a young home, they must do their best to update their homes so that they have those things that buyers want most. Most important are kitchens and baths. Freshly painted walls and recent neutral carpeting can work wonders as well.
Buyers want homes that have been well maintained.
They want to know that the chimney has been cleaned, the furnace and air conditioning serviced and that the appliances are in good working order as well. They expect the roof to be in good condition along with the foundation so there are no water issues.
Buyers want homes that have curb appeal.
Overgrown shrubs and trees too close to the foundation are turnoffs along with cracked or broken walls and a driveway in poor condition. Rotted wood trim needs to be addressed. Also, the home should be freshly painted on the exterior if not done in forever-type materials. Power-washing is a must for all homes. Don’t forget the front path and decks or patios. A well-maintained lawn is a must with manicured shrubs of an appropriate size.
Buyers want homes that are clean.
Now is the time to clean all the things you always forget about inside! The tops of ceiling fans, those hard-to-get to stairwell chandeliers, the fireplace, the tops of door jambs, and my personal favorite – the fuzz that collects on light bulbs. It goes without saying that all of the usual things such as toilets, tubs and sinks must be clean at all times. Clean windows show you care and let more light into the house and sparkling hardwood floors are a must. Last but not least the home must smell clean!
Buyers want homes with nice yards.
A space to relax with family and friends is important. If you have photos from last summer this will go a long way in the buyer imagining your outdoor space.
There is no replacement for a qualified professional to help you evaluate your home as each is different. Often my sellers tell me, “If I knew my house could look so good I might have decided to stay!”
If your plans call for a move this season, let me put my 20 years of experience to work for you! Call me and let’s start immediately! I will be happy to help you out!
