So you are selling your home and need a little guidance on getting it ready for the droves of interested buyers that will be coming to see what you have to offer? No problem. Getting a home ready for shows is a pretty simple thing. All it really takes is some planning and careful execution, a bit of time, and maybe a few bucks but the end result is amazing when done properly. You may even wonder why you are selling the home in the first place! It funny, some people are amazed at how different their home looks when all is said and done.
All right, let's get down to business. The first thing that you will have to consider is cleanliness. Now, you may say "but my home is already clean!" This might be true, but go and have a look at a new construction show home, how clean is your home compared to that? It's alright that your home has some mess in it, it is to be expected. After all, nobody lives in a show home and you likely have a whole family in yours right? Ever heard the term "white glove?" Well put one on and go around your home seeking dust and clean anywhere you find it.
The next thing you may want to consider is odor. There are any number of variables that can factor into the smell that a home has. If you are a smoker then this is a huge one. Pets are also great for causing "unpleasant" odors. Getting rid of smells can be tricky as they weave their way into everything, the furniture, bedspreads and mattresses, clothing, drapes, well you get the idea. Airing out the home is a good way to start. Open all the doors and windows and turn on any fans that you have. This should get the air circulating and help the odor situation. Remember that simply "masking" odors with flowery sprays will not solve the problem. Washing and cleaning anything that may hold odor is the way to go.
Let's think about things that send up red flags to buyers. Wallpaper from the 1970's, old appliances perhaps also from the 70's. Old carpets and scratched wood floors are another things that buyers don't really like to see. Buyers are looking for new fixtures and modern (or at least new) looking appliances and such. Old stuff does not really help a home to sell. Another good idea is to repaint the walls in a nice neutral shade such as beige or cream. It may seem boring but it is much easier to sell a home with beige walls than a home with green or blue walls. Leave the extra decorating to the new owners, they likely will have plans for their purchase anyway.
