Article

Selling your Rhode Island home

26 October 2005
By Admin

Pricing and Marketing

When selling your home there are no guarantees that a buyer will simply walk through the front door. In many cases, good marketing is needed to bring your home to the buyer. Effective marketing will help ensure that your property receives maximum exposure to attract a ready, willing and able buyer. While print advertising has been the traditional method for marketing homes, it may not be the best method in your market. Your local Realtor will know the most effective means.

The appearance of your home, a buyer's first impressions, and other considerations dramatically impact the sale and value of your home. Be sure to listen to tips for increasing your home's value.

Have you had a comparative market analysis report done? Remember the value of your home does not only rely on the fact that it has four beds and 2.5 baths. Neighborhood factors, school districts, and many other variable will greatly influence the value of your home.

Increasing the Value of Your House

When you're preparing your house for sale, remember the importance of first impressions. The market isn't the only factor that influences whether you sell for your asking price. Appearance and overall condition play a major role. Here are some easy things you can do to make your home more appealing to buyers. First impressions cannot be emphisized enough. Many homes are sold before the buyer even walks through the door. Most homes that are not sold are done on the same basis.

Outside:

• Sweep front walkway
• Remove newspapers, bikes and toys
• Park extra cars away from the property
• Trim back the shrubs
• Apply fresh, clean paint throughout
• Clean windows and window coverings throughout
• Keep pet areas clean
• Maintain all sealant (window, tub, shower, sink, etc.) in good condition
• Make sure roof and gutter are in good condition
• Mow the lawn more frequently and plant flowers
• Shovel the driveway and all walkways in the winter
• Rake the leaves and sweep sand from your drive and entry
• Don't forget to pick up trash after windy days

Inside:

• Kitchen and bathroom should shine
• Quick once-over with the vacuum; carpets should be clean
• Place fresh flowers in the main rooms
• Put dishes away, unless setting a formal display for decoration
• Make beds and put all clothes away
• Enhance the spaciousness of each room
• Keep plumbing and all appliances in working order
• Open drapes and turn on lights for a brighter feel
• Straighten closets
• Put toys away
• Turn off television
• Play soft music on the radio
• Keep pets out of the way and pet areas clean and odor-free
• Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medication and other valuables
• Leave and let your Realtor show your home

Important Reminders

• Potential buyers usually feel more comfortable if the owners are not present
• Your Realtor is your best ally in reaching your asking price. Use them!
• If people unaccompanied by an agent request to see your property, refer them to your Realtor to shedule an appointment
• Leave a number where you can be reached if you are leaving town, even for a weekend. You do not want to miss the opportunity for your Realtor to show your home.