11 Ways to Improve a First Impression with Homebuyers
Don’t ever let someone tell you that first impressions don’t matter. When it comes to selling a home, they can make a huge difference between potential homebuyers making a lowball offer and the asking price.
If you’re concerned about making a good first impression with homebuyers, here are 12 ways to help you improve that initial encounter.
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Fix Up the Yard
The outside of your home is the first thing homebuyers see when they drive up. If your lawn looks messy and cluttered, then they might think your house will be messy and cluttered.
Buyers are already judging whether or not your asking price is fair the moment they see your home. Show that your price is fair by fixing up your front lawn and making it stand out. Mow the grass, trim the bushes and weed out the flowerbeds. If you have the time, add a few flowers to brighten up the yard.
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Make Your Front Door Pop
It sounds strange, but people notice the front door and how it looks. If the paint is chipped or the screen has holes in it, they’re going to notice.
Don’t overlook the small things. Give you door a paint touch up and clean the door window, if it has one.
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Look for Leaks
There’s nothing more embarrassing than a leaky faucet in your home. If a faucet leaks, homebuyers might think there’s something wrong with the plumbing, and they’ll take that into account when making an offer.
Go through your bathrooms and kitchen and check that the faucets are in good condition.
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Clean and Declutter
Your home will look a hundred times better when it’s clean and decluttered. Now that you’re planning on moving anyway, it’s time to declutter and get rid of old clothes and toys that you don’t use anymore. Consider donating or even having a garage sale to make a few extra bucks.
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Have Carpets Professionally Cleaned
If you have carpet, then your potential homebuyers will notice when it’s dirty and dingy. If it’s been awhile since your last cleaning, go the extra mile and get it professionally cleaned. When the carpet shines, the rest of the room will brighten too.
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Make Sure Your Switches Work
You know your buyer is going to be looking at every switch. Beat them to it and check them all for yourself. If one isn’t working, hire an electrician to fix it.
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Re-Caulk in Bathrooms
Caulk prevents leaks, and it can make an older bathroom look a little newer and cleaner. Go through your bathrooms and caulk any leaks or worn places.
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Check Light Bulbs
Your buyers will also notice if lightbulbs aren’t working. Don’t let them notice and replace any light bulbs if needed.
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Go Through Your Property with Visitors
Though it may seem uncomfortable, going through your property with visitors gives you a chance to highlight your home’s best features and explain away some concerns. You’re on hand to answer questions, and you come off as a knowledgeable seller.
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Go through Medicine Cabinets
Buyers will literally look in every cabinet, Don’t let old prescriptions fall on their heads. Clean out medicine cabinets to make them look more presentable.
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Place Your Pet with a Friend
Just for the duration of the showing. Some people are allergic to pet hair. Don’t let your furry friend spoil a sale because the buyer couldn’t breathe.