When it comes time to sell, many homeowners will rush to get their home looking its best. They will stage their home to make it attractive to buyers. They will declutter, throw on some new paint, and boost their curb appeal. But preparing your home for sale requires so much more than terrific aesthetics. A great-looking home won’t mean anything if the condition of the home is not up to par. With long-term maintenance, you’ll ensure your home is ready for the market when it’s time to sell.
“Maintaining your home’s health is the cornerstone of preparing it for sale. A well-kept home not only retains its value but also makes the staging process much smoother. The real essence of a show-ready home is one that’s been cared for and loved over the years.”
So how can you make sure your home retains its value? These tips will help.
Long Term and Consistent Home Maintenance is Crucial
If you neglect basic maintenance, small issues can turn into big problems. They can greatly reduce your home value when it’s time to sell. Following a plan to fix issues in a timely manner and conducting routine maintenance for items that are running smoothly, is crucial to maintain your home.
Important maintenance Steps Include:
- Check Fire and Safety Devices: Test fire and safety systems regularly to verify they function properly.
- Maintain Kitchen Appliances: Focus on appliances that might sell with your home. Clean your dishwasher and take steps to avoid clogs and leaks. Replace water filters in your refrigerator as needed.
- Check Humid Areas: Ensure humid areas are properly ventilated to prevent mold and mildew. Maintain caulking and grout to produce a clean aesthetic.
- Inspect Home Systems: Schedule regular maintenance for your plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems to prevent extensive repairs.
- Perform Roof Maintenance: Check your gutters for blockages. Confirm that they direct melting snow and rain away from your home.
Related Blog: 12 Tips to Keep Your Home in Selling Condition for Winter.
Staging Is the Finishing Touch
Staging is an essential final step in preparing your home for sale at the onset and throughout the sale process. Crucial elements of the staging process include:
- Painting the home: A fresh coat of paint can do wonders. Choose a neutral color that most people will find pleasing.
- Declutter: A decluttered home will look more attractive and more spacious. Throw out old items or put them in storage. This step will also be helpful in the moving process.
- Depersonalize: Stash personal items like family photos. Allow potential buyers to envision themselves living in your home.
- Prioritize Curb Appeal: Your home’s exterior must make a good first impression. Landscape the lawn and address signs of damage to boost your curb appeal.
- Odors: Address any odors such as strong food smells, smoke or less than fresh smelling air quality.
Related Article: Seller’s Pre-Market & Staging Checklist.
Conclusion
Staging your home is important, but long-term home maintenance will give you peace of mind that your home is in sound condition as you get it ready for the market. Keep up with your landscaping, maintain your roof and exterior, appliances and mechanicals. In addition, check your fire and security devices and keep your systems running smoothly. Your efforts will pay off in a big way.
And don’t forget the most essential step in preparing your home for sale is to Call me! I will help you put your home in its best light, so it will sell quickly at the highest possible price.
