3 On Your Side: How To Make Your House More Appealing To Potential Buyers
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The housing market is heating up again, which is great for anyone selling their home but market trends aren't the only influence on the sale of your home. Appearance counts for a lot. In this week's Angie's List report, Jim Donovan shows you how to make your house more appealing to potential buyers.
Once your home is listed for sale, it has to be ready for inspection at all times
"When selling your home, you want to just live a little tidier during that phase of your life because you might have to show your home on a moment's notice and want to be able to clean up quick and be out of the house," said Angie's List founder, Angie Hicks.
Real estate agents like Gavin Frost know the importance of a clutter free home.
"We want it to feel like, when a buyer walks in, there's nothing to do. There's no bills to pay, there's no dishes to wash, there's no floors to clean, nothing," said Frost.
One tip from the pros, gather clutter and take it with you!
"Grab an empty laundry basket or a hamper. Start throwing everything in there. We're talking dirty clothes, toys, the daily clutter, all that stuff. We want to put it in there and work our way through the house. That is going to go into your car when you leave," said Frost.
Some areas need more than a quick pick-up. Your kitchen and bathrooms need to shine.
"No water left over from your morning shower because we don't want to be thinking about that. Make sure that the lid on the toilet is shut. It's a good rule across the board. All lids on everything in the house should be shut. Then the sink, same deal. Wipe it out real quick and then put out some fresh towels," said Frost.
It's great if you love your pet, but a buyer could be allergic. So hide any pet evidence before a showing.
"Don't forget the little things when showing your house. Things like fresh flowers or live plants can really warm up your home and make it very inviting," said Hicks.
It's also a good idea to store family photos and personal nick-nacks.
And take about half the items out of your closet, so they look roomier.