Tuesday, 11 February 2014

Home Staging - How Much Does It Cost and Is It Worth It?


If you are going to be selling your home and want to maximize the value, I think it is a great idea to get out to a few open houses first. That will give you an idea of how your home compares to others around. You will probably see some homes that look clean, orderly and very appealing and some that don't look quite so good. Think about those homes and your home. Which homes would you be more inclined to seriously consider purchasing? Would you pay more for the home that looked appealing? Buyers who want a move in ready home will! Buyers who want a deal will not mind paying less and then have to do some work.
Depending on the condition of your home, staging does not have to be a huge undertaking. On the other hand, it may take quite a bit of effort. Many people have a difficult time looking at their home objectively. When we see the same things every day there is a tendency to not notice details. For this reason it is good to have an objective person stage for you, or give you ideas of what to look for.
Here are some simple tips:
Declutter
Do not have piles of anything anywhere. Mail, magazines, newspapers, pictures, dishes, laundry, food, toys, trinkets etc. I think you get the picture. You may even have to rent a storage unit, pack items in bins or boxes and store them off site. Even your china cabinet should be trimmed down. Don't forget cupboard, drawers and closets - potential buyers will look into your cabinets and closets. Remember, you want your home to appear more open and spacious and that may require storing things away.
Clean 
Your house should be spotless. Part of cleaning may be painting, or at least paint touch ups. Clean everything! Doors and door frames often have finger prints, windows inside and out including screens, and yes - your basement should be clean too - even the furnace and hot water tank. I recommend that you use natural cleaning products in case potential buyers have allergies. Also, avoid using artificial scents in your home. Natural cinnamon, vanilla etc are great, but stay away from chemical scents. If you have pets, be sure there are no pet odours.
Modernize
You may need to spend a few dollars on modern pictures for walls, plants etc. Today's buyers like a home that looks fresh and modern. You can modernize older furniture with modern throw cushions and modern accessories.
Don't forget these rules for the outside of your home as well. The yard should be well groomed, weeded and appealing. If the winter walkways and the driveway should be clear of snow. The front door is crucial. Make sure it is clean and welcoming. Remember, that first impressions matter. You want potential buyers to be excited to walk in your house. If the entrance way is dismal, you have probably already lost a buyer, or at the very least the offer will be less.
It does not matter whether your home is an expensive home in a wealthy neighbourhood, or a modest home in a modest neighbourhood. By making your home shine, you will sell your home for more. Some Realtors, such as myself provide free home staging services to qualified sellers. Ask your Realtor and happy selling!
Susan Hawke, Sales Representative with REMAX, Sault Ste Marie Brokerage Inc. is dedicated to offering clients the best possible service. For more insight and tips visit: http://susanhawke.blogspot.ca/. If you are thinking or buyer or selling in the Algoma region, or know someone who is, contact Susan Hawke, Sales Representative today.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8303045
****

As a local resident, I have a love for and life experience of Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding areas. I am familiar with all the positive amenities, neighborhoods, rural side roads and commercial districts.
I look forward to helping you throughout your life with all your family's real estate needs.
Please take a moment to LIKE my Facebook page.
My Twitter is @susanhawkesells
Buying or Selling in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario?  Know anyone who is?  I can help.  705.971.0918

Like A Hawke,
Susan

Please check out my current listings and together we'll discover your real estate needs. If you know anyone buying or selling I'd love to help them! You can follow me on Twitter: @susanhawkesells Instagram: @susanhawke Pinterest: @SusanHawke Facebook Page: Susan Hawke Remax Sales Representative Sault Ste. Marie Ontario Canada

No comments:

Post a Comment