Increasing Your Home's Value

When you're preparing your house for sale, remember the importance of first impressions. The market isn't the only factor that influences whether you get your asking price. Appearance and overall condition play a major role. Your home must absolutely sparkle!  Here are some easy things you can do to make your home more appealing to buyers.

Outside

• It is estimated that more than half of all houses are sold before the buyers even get out of their cars. So stand across the street from your house and review its curb appeal.
• Sweep the front walkway.
• Remove newspapers, bikes, and toys.
• Park extra cars away from the property.
• Trim the shrubs.
• Apply fresh, clean paint where needed.
• Clean all windows.
• Make sure roof and gutters are in good condition; no repairs needed.
• Mow the lawn more frequently and plant flowers.
• Keep pet areas clean.

Inside

• Kitchen and bathrooms should shine.
• Quick once-over with the vacuum; carpets should be clean.
• Place fresh flowers in the main rooms.
• Put dishes away, unless setting a formal display for decoration.
• Make beds and put all clothes away.
• Open drapes and turn on lights for a brighter feel.
• Straighten closets.
• Put toys away.
• Turn off television.
• Play soft music on the radio/stereo.
• Keep pets out of the way and pet areas clean and odor-free.
• Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medication, and other valuables.
• Enhance the spaciousness of each room. Pack away collectibles to allow buyers to envision their own furnishings in the home.

Important Reminders

Potential buyers usually feel more comfortable if the owners are not present.  Just because your home is for sale, doesn't mean you have to let in anyone who knocks at your door.  If people unaccompanied by an agent request to see your property, refer them to your real estate agent for an appointment. Leave a number where you can be reached if you are leaving town, even for a weekend

Home Prices in Your Neighborhood

Knowing how much homes are selling for in your neighborhood is one of many factors to consider in determining the selling price range for your home. When you contact me, I'll visit your home and prepare a market analysis of the homes recently sold in your neighborhood, share my in-depth knowledge of current market conditions, and help you determine the market value of your property.

Keep in mind, your home is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Working with a real estate professional will help ensure that your property will receive maximum exposure to attract interested people who are willing to make an offer.

Fair Market Value

The basic laws of supply and demand greatly impact what a buyer is willing to pay for property and the amount financial institutions or lenders are willing to finance.

Fair market value is defined as the likely price a ready, willing, and able buyer is willing to pay for a property when:

• The property is offered for sale on the open market.
• The property is marketed for a reasonable period of time.
• The buyer has a complete understanding and knowledge of the property.
• Neither the buyer nor seller is under abnormal pressure.
  

Glenda Cherry ABR, e-PRO, SRES, REALTOR® Direct:  703.587.3615 Office:  703.679.1700 www.YourNOVAHome.net Homes@GlendaCherry.com

Keller Williams Realty 11700 Plaza America Dr #150 Reston, VA  20190

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© 2010 Glenda Cherry
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