If you’re looking to sell your property, now may be a challenging time. According to Forbes, the number of buyers is on the decline because people are generally keeping a tighter hold on their finances. But those looking to sell their houses are still on the market. This gives the buyers additional room for negotiating.
One way to make sure you get the best deal is by making your listing more attractive than others. There are a lot of things you can do to achieve this. Here they are.
Aesthetics
The first step to making your listing more attractive is by making your home actually more aesthetically appealing too.
First impressions matter, especially when investing in a home. Everything has to be perfect from the moment the prospective buyer sees your home from the street. This is called improving your curb appeal.
Check your home’s exteriors. Are there missing roof shingles? Is the paint on the sidings coming off? Is there rust on the gutter system? Even small issues can make a big impression on a buyer.
Work on your landscape as well. The lawn care startup costs are worth it if it increases the overall value of your home.
There are also aesthetic upgrades to be done inside your home. According to Nerd Wallet, kitchen remodels make up for at least 81 percent of what you spend in the value they add to homes.
Bathroom upgrades or remodels are also advised. They add value to your home by delivering a 70 percent return on investment.
Maintenance
Another way to make your listing more attractive is to make your home low-maintenance. This means replacing parts or appliances that need replacing. This step saves your buyer having to worry about future replacements or upgrades.
You can also replace existing features with new ones that require less maintenance overall, like replacing your wood sidings with vinyl ones. This will show your prospective buyer that it would be easy to maintain your home. Just make sure you include these details in your listing.
Efficiency
There are a lot of benefits to making your home more energy efficient. Aside from doing your part in the whole sustainability movement, you’ll also see a noticeable reduction in your power bills. This is a very attractive detail for a buyer.
Replace your lightbulbs. According to the Department of Energy, many American houses still use the traditional incandescent bulbs. By switching to LEDs, you can expect to use up to 80 percent less energy. LEDs also last anywhere between 3-25 times longer than incandescent bulbs, which means you can use them longer. This change alone will have a positive impact on your energy efficiency.
You should also address leaks in doors, walls, windows, and all other parts of the house. By making sure your rooms are sealed, the HVAC system will have an easier time circulating heating or cooling, effectively lowering your power usage.
By just making these simple changes, you’ll be adding value to your home and making it more attractive in the property market. You should also consult with a real estate agent for other tips. The market may be slow but there are still buyers out there looking for a good deal. Give it to them.