The better the condition of your Ocean City home, the better price it will bring and the quicker it will sell. In a slow market, poor condition may very well mean that the home will not sell at all, given the competition of other homes that may be in better or newer condition. Most people know this; however, since you actually see your home every day, hearing how to make your home appear better is not always easy.
First impression can only happen once! Fortunately, condition is something we have control over. Your real estate agent will have specific recommendations, but some advice here might be appropriate. Repairing those items that you have been putting off – a fresh coat of paint, thorough cleaning and organizing, can do wonders for a sale. Neatness counts. Eliminate clutter. Make the home appear as spacious as possible.
Some other things you can do to ensure your home’s exterior lands favorable first impressions include:
1. Mow your lawn and spruce up your landscaping
2. Clean your windows
3. Paint and repair your gutters
4. De-clutter your closets
5. Make your countertops free of clutter and appliances
6. Clean your fireplace
7. Eliminate odors
8. Stage your home – hire a professional if necessary
One of our favorite things on our to-do list for our clients is to pay special attention to the front door. This is where the prospective buyers stand while waiting for you or the agent to let them in. If they like your home, they will drive by again, maybe even with other family members to look at your home. Be sure it is clean, and given a fresh coat of paint. Polish up your address number and put down a new welcome mat. The old saying that “you never get a second chance to make a good first impression” is still true.