You have had a highly informed appraiser evaluate your property – the residence and all of its facilities. As well, you’ve discussed the market value of your home with your experienced Realtor®; now it is time to prepare your home and yourselves to sell. The holidays tend to evoke memories and emotions for everyone. When selling your prized home, there are few things to take into account to attract worthy offers.
Even with the season for celebration upon us, take down family photos and keep the holiday decorations to a pleasant minimal. A prospective buyer wants to walk in and picture themselves living in the home in harmony and comfort. It should be free of pets underfoot, pet odors, smoke or anything overbearing like air fresheners. A sandlewood candle or a slight scent of cinnamon in the kitchen is plenty. “Ringo,” “Georgie” and “Johnny” need to be temporarily inconvenienced in a safe place during the showing. Keep overhead fans rotating lightly and the air conditioning in the mid-seventies. The weather is now prime, so open up the drapes to let in some sunshine and better yet, open a sparkling clean window or the sliding glass doors to display the home’s accented beauty and scenic views.
Outdated wallpaper and wood paneling or unpolished floors tells a buyer that the home is a fixer-upper. This will only entice negotiation and bargain-hunting. Have your home and the stabling facilities in tip top shape. Attend to even the most minor repairs and be sure to pressure wash the exterior, remove unhealthy plants, add a fresh coat of paint, if needed, and check all of the light bulbs. A good first impression can help sell your home. Examine your front door: Does it need refinishing, and have the door handles become tarnished?
A saddened or even an exuberant owner can be damaging to the shopper’s interpretation. It is best to leave the home showing in the hands of your professional. However, don’t forget to discuss the availablity of your agent in case he or she has holiday family commitments of their own.
Historically, sales statistics tend to tail off somewhat during November and December. Only in 2012 did impending changes to federal tax laws spike a rash of closings before year’s end. However, in Marion County, the winter farm shopping season is just beginning. Good news for home owners is that only serious shoppers are looking at properties during the holidays, so it is ultra important to be ready to sell. For buyers, the lack of competition makes it a really good time to present offers on the home of your dreams.
—Julie K. Castro
Previously published with Homes & Land – Real Ocala Blog
REAL ESTATE & MARKETING 