Ready? Get your home set for the spring real estate market!

The spring real estate market is typically when things really start to heat up and the competition is the strongest. The spring market can be one of the best times to sell a home for several reasons. Some of those reasons are:

• The number of ready and able buyers is usually the highest in the spring.
• Income tax returns are typically received in the spring, which can be used toward the purchase of a home.
• More daylight which can mean more opportunity for your home to show better.

Timing the spring real estate market just right is critical. Missing even a week or two in the prime spring market because you aren’t prepared could cost you money. Don’t wait to get your home ready to be listed for sale. Here are some tips to prepare your home and family for the spring real estate market in order to knock your competition out of the park and create a pleasant and successful home selling experience.

When a home is priced and marketed properly there may be an influx of buyers wanting to tour the home. In this case, you, your family and in some cases your pets may have to leave your home several times in a day while those private tours are occurring. If you decline showings, you could potentially be turning away an offer on your home therefore it is important that as a seller you and your family are prepared to accommodate showings.

Some low cost but important interior tasks to check of your list when preparing your home to be listed are:

• Clean all windows
• Clean light bulbs, replace any non working bulbs
• Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures
• Clean air returns and floor vents
• Wash and polish floors
• Vacuum and steam clean carpets
• Dust all surfaces
• Deep clean appliances
• Clean baseboards and trim
• Clean showers and toilets
• Replace broken switch plates
• Declutter and depersonalize – pack up what you don’t need
• Clean out closets
• Repaint and neutralize, if necessary
• Re-grout tile and caulk showers, tub and sinks as necessary
• Replacing faucets, light fixtures and door knobs could help create an updated look and feel without breaking the bank
• Let light in. It’s important to make your home light and bright. Open curtains and windows during showings on nice days
• Gather paperwork and documents such as; roof warranties, furnace warranties/manuals, hot-water heater and appliance manuals, current electric and fuel bills, etc.
• Know you plan for when your home sells!

Curb appeal is very important. If a potential buyer drives by a property that looks neglected from the outside, they may decide not to consider the home. Some low cost but important exterior tasks to check of your list when preparing your home to be listed are:

• Weed gardens, rake leaves and keep the lawn mowed
• Freshly mulch flower beds and/or gardens
• Trim shrubs and bushes
• Plant bright flowers and plants
• Clean windows
• Power wash siding, decks, patios, porches, etc.
• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Re-secure any loose gutters
• Re-seal driveway
• Re-paint and faded or peeling paint
• Remove all clutter and/or trash from the property
• Clean and freshen up outdoor furniture
• Paint or spruce up the front door (remember it’s the first thing buyers see when walking into your home)

Huge turn offs for prospective buyers are foul odors, pet and smoke odors can kill a home sale. Be proactive and keep your home clean during the listing period.

Buyers can be alarmed by the smallest home inspection find. An easy solution to avoid this would be to have a pre-listing inspection.

The spring real estate market is coming fast. Don’t wait, get ready now! Happy selling and good luck!

Erin Henry | Realtor
NextHome Realty Select
306 N. Cameron St. | Winchester VA 22601
Cell 540.550.5069 | Office 540.667.9097 x 721
erinhenryrealtor.com

Licensed in Virginia
license# 0225077016
erin@nexthomerealtyselect.com