10 Tips to Make Your Home More Appealing to Buyers

Yes, we are currently in a sellers’ market, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t things you can do to get your home sold faster and for more money. Or maybe you aren’t quite ready to sell your home but are considering some updates. Some updates will appeal to buyers, and some won’t. Some will provide a hefty return on investment, and some won’t. It’s always best to consult your realtor before making significant changes.

10 Tips to Make Your Home More Appealing to Buyers

1. Make a Good First Impression – First impressions are everything! Make sure potential buyers’ first impression of your home is good because you won’t get a second chance. Potential buyers are looking for a safe, warm, and inviting home. Try to look objectively at the front of your home. Consider cleaning up your landscaping if it’s gotten out of control, adding a nice light if the front of your home is dark, adding a pretty planter or bench to make your front porch more inviting, or painting your front door if it’s looking a little dingy.
   
   
2. Keep it Neutral – Potential buyers need to be able to visualize themselves living in your home. Bright colors, bold wallpaper, or eclectic decor aren’t everyone’s liking. Creating a space with neutral colors and decor will appeal to more buyers.
   
   
3. Remove Pets – We love pets as much as the next person, but not everyone feels the same way. Some potential buyers may have a fear of dogs, be allergic to cats, or (gasp!) simply not want a pet. Therefore, it’s best to remove your pets and any evidence of them (food bowls, toys, beds, etc.) during showings.
   
   
4. Go Through Your Closets and Cabinets – One survey found that a lack of storage is one of the top home-related annoyances. Most buyers will open closets and cabinet doors to determine how much storage your home has. If they see a closet stuffed to the gills with clothing or have to dodge a storage container that falls out of a kitchen cabinet, it gives the appearance that your home lacks storage. Now is an excellent time to go through your closets and cabinets and either get rid of stuff you no longer need or pack up the stuff you aren’t currently using.
   
   
5. Light Up Your Home – Most people would rather live in a bright, cheery home than a dark, dingy one. Furthermore, proper lighting can enhance a home’s features, make it seem bigger, and create a more inviting space. Installing energy-efficient lighting can also appeal to eco-conscious buyers or those looking to save on utility costs. Consider the three layers of light - ambient, task, and accent – when staging your home, and don’t forget about natural lighting.
   
   
6. De-Personalize – De-personalizing allows potential buyers to visualize themselves living in your home. Remove personal items such as family photos, collections, and personal keepsakes when showing a home. And this will be very difficult for some sellers to hear, but not everyone is an Eagles fan and may even be…gasp… Dallas fans. We know…. It’s hard to believe, but it’s true. So, if you have a man cave filled with Eagles memorabilia, consider removing most of the memorabilia and make it a room that would appeal to more potential buyers.
   
   
7. Focus on the Kitchen – Research shows the kitchen is the most important room to most buyers, so make sure your kitchen is inviting. At the very least, ensure that it is clean and clutter-free. Consider repairing/updating or replacing anything outdated or broken. You may even want to consider taking it further with new flooring or an energy-efficient appliance. Research shows that a “minor” kitchen remodel provides the highest return on investment (85.7%).
   
   
8. Don’t Forget the Outside – You’ve probably heard the importance of curb appeal when selling a home, which relates to making a good first impression. But don’t forget the back and side yards. Ensure the grounds are landscaped, well-maintained, and devoid of toys and debris. A nice deck or patio with a few chairs or a table and chairs, along with a few colorful potted plants, can extend a home’s living space.
   
   
9. Create Retreats – A retreat can be anywhere – the living room, outside, etc. -but you may want to start with the bathrooms and the master bedroom. Remove personal items from the sink and counters and keep them clean. Consider adding fluffy towels, an area rug, or a basket with spa items. Keep your bedroom clutter-free and your bed made with well-made bedding, pillows, etc. If you have room, create a little reading nook with a table and a comfortable chair.
   
   
10. Be Ready to Show – Always keep your home show-ready – cleaned, decluttered, etc. While it may be inconvenient, it will get your home sold more quickly. 

Sell Your Home Faster and for a Better Price

Pete Heim, a lifelong Berks County resident, knows Berks County real estate like nobody else! He specializes in buying and selling homes faster and for a better price. Contact Pete and his dedicated team today at 610-745-3378 or 610-898-1441 or connect with him online.