Monday, July 25, 2016

How to Help Sell Your Home

Let your home smile a welcome to buyers when the agent shows the house...

Three's A Crowd

Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house.

Music is Mellow

But not when showing a house. Turn off the blaring radio or television. Let the salesman and buyer talk, free of disturbances.

Pets Underfoot?

Keep them out of the way-preferably out of the house.

Silence is Golden

Be courteous, but don't force conversation with the potential buyer. He/she wants to inspect your house-not pay a social call.

Be It Ever So Humble

Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, it has been lived in. Let the trained salesperson answer any objections. This is his job.

In the Background

The salesperson knows the buyer's requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when you don't tag along. You will be called if needed.

Why Put the Cart Before the Horse?

Trying to dispose of furniture and furnishings to the potential buyer before he has purchased the house often loses a sale.

A Word to the Wise

Let your Realtor discuss price terms, possession and other factors with the customer. He is eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.

Use Your Agent

Show your home to prospective customers only by appointment through your agent. Your cooperation will be appreciated and will help close the sale more quickly.

First Impressions are Lasting

The front door greets the prospect. Make sure it is fresh, clean and scrubbed looking. Keep lawn trimmed and edged, and the yard free of refuse.

Decorate for a Quick Sale

Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce appeal. Why tell the prospect how your home could look, when you can show him by redecorating? A quicker sale at a higher price will result. An investment in new kitchen wallpaper will pay dividends.

Let the Sun Shine In

Open draperies and curtains and let the prospects see how cheerful your home can be. (Dark homes do not appeal.)

Fix That Faucet

Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing.

Repairs Can Make a Big Difference

Loose knobs, sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers and other minor flaws detract from home value. Have them fixed.

From Top to Bottom

Display the full value of your attic and other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles.

Safety First

Keep stairways clear. Avoid cluttered appearances and possible injuries.

Make Closets Look Bigger

Neat well organized closets show that you have ample space.

Bathrooms Help Sell Homes

Check and repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Make this room sparkle.

Arrange Bedrooms Neatly

Remove excess furniture. Use attractive bedspreads and freshly laundered curtains.

Can you See the Light?

Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel a glowing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening inspection.

If you have a need for a real estate professional, please contact me. I would also appreciate your vote of confidence by passing my name to anyone you may know who would benefit from my services.


408.687.2026 |  Julie@JulieWyss.comwww.JulieWyss.com



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Monday, July 11, 2016

Preparing Your Property for Sale


Fully preparing your home for sale can make a considerable difference in the time it takes to sell it. You can eliminate buyer objections before they arise by making necessary repairs and improvements, some of which are suggested in the article.

Outdoors
  • Spruce up your garden and lawn; trim shrubbery and replace dead plants.
  • Yard and patio should be neat; outdoor furniture clean and in good shape.
  • Manicure your front yard; make sure your driveway and entryway are free of clutter.
  • Kitchen Sinks, appliances and countertops should sparkle. 
  • Remove any clutter.
  • Wax the floor.
  • Clean the oven, range and other appliances.
  • Clean tile and grout. Replace if necessary.

Exterior
  • Ensure the house numbers, mailbox and exterior lighting are in good condition.
  • Touch up with fresh paint as needed.
  • Inspect chimney for cracks and earthquake damage.
  • Repair loose trim, drain pipes and fencing.
  • Clean stains and window screens.

Bathrooms
  • Clean mirrors, glass, chrome and porcelain surfaces.
  • Replace shower curtain if needed.
  • Fix any faucet drips or leaks.
  • Clean grout and caulking. 
  • Replace if needed.

Garage
  • Remove clutter and tidy up the shelves.
  • Clean the floor.

Closets
  • Doors and drawers should open and close easily.
  • Remove clutter, tidy up shelves and racks.
  • Shoes and clothes should be neatly arranged.

Living Areas
  • Paint if needed. 
  • Think about brightening interiors with neutral toned paint.
  • Clean draperies and carpets.
  • Replace burned out light bulbs.

Overall
  • Check basics: doors, windows, cabinets.
  • Clean fireplace and remove smoke stains from wall and mantle.
  • Clean your furnace and water heater.

If you have a need for a real estate professional, please contact me. I would also appreciate your vote of confidence by passing my name to anyone you may know who would benefit from my services.


408.687.2026 |  Julie@JulieWyss.comwww.JulieWyss.com