Do you ever wonder why some houses sell quickly and others just sit? It is not always the case that these homes are not desirable. It can be a hard issue to broach and is uncomfortable to many when it is noted that your home may turn off buyers.
Our Anne Winch Real Estate Team is always aware of what homeowners can do to present their home in the best light. We have found the top reasons buyers may be turned off from buying your home. Here are 6 buyer turnoffs that you want to avoid.
Your home smells bad
Let’s face it everyone’s home does have certain odors – some are pleasant others are not. If you have just cooked dinner with fish or a meal with garlic, it can be very unappealing to buyers who do not find these aromas pleasant. Make sure that when you are showing your home opt for a simple meal like sandwiches or a salad to keep food odors at a minimum.
Smoke
Whether you smoke in the home or even in the garage, these fumes can come into your home and cause odors. You will need to air out your home completely. Carpets and drapes may need to be cleaned along with any cushions, including washing any smoke residue on the walls and/or repainting.
Pets
Usually pet hair can be picked up with a good vacuuming and a lint roller on couches, etc. Make sure your yard is free from doggie excrement and that dog or cat dishes, beds, litter, etc. are put away during all showings. If you have scratches on your hardwood or baseboards that have been chewed, you will have to fix these things before you sell or you may not get buyers or offers.
Clutter stresses some people
Decluttering not only shows your home better it alleviates stress as some people get very anxious with lots of objects around. You don’t want your future buyers to be saying “get me out of here” before they have had a chance to see the beauty your home has to offer.
Kitchens and bathrooms
This area of the home needs to be very clean and impersonal. Buyers often feel uncomfortable in other people’s personal space. Bathrooms should look spa-like with no personal items hanging around. Tip: Keep personal items like toothbrushes, deodorant and the like in a basket that can be stored away during showings and easily brought forward when needed. Kitchens need to be clear of dishes, counters to a point of minimalism, and garbage cans empty and sanitized.
Curb appeal
The first glance of your home is from the exterior. If the outside of your home looks untidy or weathered, buyers think you have not taken care of your home on the inside also. You want the exterior of your home to look welcoming. Make sure the grass is cut, weeds are gone and that your front door is painted and appealing to everyone.
Sometimes sellers are not aware that they may be unintentionally jeopardizing the sale of their homes by turning off buyers. Even though we may suggest some changes to your home, we are doing this in the best light to make sure your home is competitive with other similar homes that are for sale.
If you have any further questions on how we can help stage and sell your home, do not hesitate to contact the Anne Winch Real Estate Team. We will provide a free evaluation of your home and make suggestions on how we can stage your home and get it quickly on the market.