Trying to sell your Dallas area home is stressful, no doubt about it. What if, instead of stressing out, you focused on what buyers want – and what turns them off? As experienced Dallas real estate professionals, we know how important it is to see your home from others’ perspective, and take action so your home won’t turn off potential buyers.
First, you may want to ask those who’ve looked at your home what they did like or didn’t. Even better, why not have your agent supply surveys at open houses, so that prospective buyers can give their feedback without feeling guilty about their opinions? It’s important to know if there are certain things about your home that seem to turn buyers off. Other than getting feedback, a few other things you MUST do include:
Freshening up the decor. Have wood paneling in the living room or wallpaper in the bathroom that’s been there since 1998? Outdated is one thing you want to avoid, so out with the old and in with the new. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune; paneling can be painted for a more modern look, and simple things such as switching out knobs, hinges, and drawer pulls or cabinet handles can make a big difference.
Keeping it tidy. Clear small appliances off the kitchen counters; pick up the kids’ toys; put that pile of mail, receipts, and bills away; and straighten/clear out the closets so it appears there is ample storage space. You want to project a sense of order and cleanliness so buyers will get the impression you’ve taken good care of your home.
Eliminating pet odors. This can be one of the biggest turnoffs for buyers. While you may have become “nose blind” to pet odors, others will definitely notice. If your pet has had a few accidents, consider having the carpets or even furnishings, steam cleaned. Vacuum and dust every nook and cranny to get rid of pet dander and potential allergens, raise the windows to let fresh air in, do everything possible to ensure your home smells clean and fresh.
Depersonalizing your home. Neutral wall colors are best, as not everyone loves lilac colored bedroom walls. Remove family photos, the kids’ artwork on the fridge, even pictures or decor of a religious nature as some people are turned off by these types of things. Make your home as neutral as possible so that potential buyers can easily visualize their own family living in the home.
There’s no doubt about it – you can’t suddenly decide to put your home on the market and stick a “For Sale” sign in the yard without doing a little work. However, you don’t have to completely remodel your home or spend thousands of dollars to make it more appealing to buyers. A few small changes and a little elbow grease can go a long way toward selling success!
At Team Nelson our real estate agents are dedicated to your success, whether you’re selling your Dallas area home or searching for the perfect home for your family. Give us a call today, and get results faster.
