If you are a seller in today’s market, you may be feeling that you missed the crazy and robust market of 2021 and the first half of 2022. There is some truth to that. However, a growing trend during the “frenzy” was sellers relying on scarcity of inventory which allowed them to take care of the basics prior to putting their property on the market. As long as the property wasn’t completely in disrepair, there were plenty of prospective buyers willing to take on the looming improvement projects at prices still attractive to sellers.
Well, those days seem to have left us. I am following numerous properties closely and I am noticing a growing trend. First impressions are reclaiming their heralded spot as most important to buyers. This is great news for sellers that wish to stand out from the crowd. While there is a valuation battle occurring within the market as buyers and sellers engage in a tug-of-war of sorts, sellers who “dot the i’s and cross the t’s” are going to find plenty of interest in their property and should be able to command top dollar in this market.
What type of details should sellers be looking to complete prior to going to market? Aside from the ever popular and required updates of paint (best bang for the buck), landscaping with fresh color, and a thorough cleaning, I’d suggest the following details be addressed: replace outlet covers, replace air registers, replace light switches to rockers, professionally clean windows inside and out plus tracks, match light bulbs throughout, power wash soffits, exteriors, and flatwork, and stain/replace fencing per HOA (if necessary) guidelines. Some of this will take a little investment but will certainly deliver in the first impression category. Buyers will notice the attention to details and it will give them confidence to make an offer on your property at or near your asking price.
As our market finds footing closer to equilibrium, the sellers that ensure a positive first impression is delivered inclusive of scents within the home are going to separate themselves from their competition. If you have any questions or are simply curious if a potential improvement will deliver a return on the investment, feel free to connect as I’d be happy to discuss those details with you. Happy selling!