First Impressions Have a Lasting Effect on Buyers; Going From Mess to Selling Success

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What would you say is the number one priority for most sellers of any property?  Getting a good price!  That is why it is essential that when you put your home on the market you be completely prepared to stand out and beat the competition. In fact, in today’s property environment, more and more sellers are jumping off the fence because they can sense the market shifting away from the buyer-centric climate we have had for years.

How can you get the most of your money when you sell your home?  It all comes down to impressions. Did you know that most buyers will decide whether they are interested or not within the first eight seconds of seeing a property? Eight seconds is all it takes for buyers to know immediately whether they want to investigate further or move on. Here are three ways to address this aspect of selling a home so that you end up getting top dollar for your sale:

Make a Fabulous First Impression

Consider how your home looks when you drive up to it. Is it warm and inviting? Are there lots of unkempt areas in the lawn and garden area?  Is the space messy or neat and clean?  Driving down any street and looking at homes, most people can easily spot homes that are cared for and lovingly maintained versus the ones that are neglected. The first impression a buyer gets of your home also indicates how you take care of the property inside as well.

Keep That Great Impression Going 

Now that you have the buyer’s initial interest, it is important to keep it going when they venture inside. Be sure to present the home in its best light. Imagine that the space was being photographed for a magazine. Would there be clutter, old and outdated fixtures, a sink full of dishes or a fridge covered in personal items?  Remember that buyers want to see the home for what it is – so it is important to provide visible access to all areas of the home. If there are closets, make an effort to de-clutter them so prospective buyers can gauge the amount of space they hold. If your home has a unique feature, show that feature off. And keep a balance between personal tastes and neutrality in terms design and décor.

Stay With the Times

No potential buyer wants to see a house that is over the top – enough that it shadows the potential of the space. If you have a kitchen that was last updated in the 70s, take the time and necessary expense to refinish the space. If budget is a concern, refinish the countertops and cabinets or flooring so that the area is rejuvenated. The same holds true for outdated bathrooms, carpeting and fixtures. Painting the walls is an inexpensive but impactful way to update a space and if at all possible, bring in some of the latest trends as long as they are neutral.
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We have a team of seller specialists dedicated to helping our sellers prepare their homes for the market. Our staging professionals will provide you with all the insight you need to know exactly how you can demand top dollar for your home. The most important thing to start is to make and keep a lasting impression!