If you have your Gulf Shores home for sale, or are thinking of putting it up for sale soon, there are some things you can and should do to shorten the time it takes to find a buyer.
Most buyers want a 'move in ready' home, not one where they have to do a lot of work to make it livable. Before the first prospect darkens your doorstep, consider these options for making your Gulf Shores home for sale one of the best on their list.
Making Your Gulf Shores Home For Sale Shine
Clear the Clutter
Clear your kitchen counters of just about everything. Clean your closets by packing up little-used items like out-of-season clothes and old toys. Install closet organizers to maximize space. Put at least one-third of your furniture in storage, especially large pieces, such as entertainment centers and big televisions. Pack up family photos, knickknacks, and wall hangings to depersonalize your home. Store the items you've packed offsite or in boxes neatly arranged in your garage or basement.
Clean Up and Out
Wash your windows and if weather permits, leave them open to air out your rooms. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Clean light fixtures and baseboards, mop and wax floors, and give your stove and refrigerator a thorough cleaning.
Clean fingerprints off of light switch plates, clean inside the cabinets, and polish doorknobs. Don't forget to clean your garage. A cluttered garage is a turn-off, even if you are taking all that junk and clutter with you when you move.
Get a Pre-Sale Home Inspection
Before you put that Gulf Shores home for sale sign in the yard or ad in the paper, arrange for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will alert you to any trouble that may be lurking that potential buyers may see. Repair items found in the inspection before ever putting your home on the market.
Get Repair Estimates
If your home inspection reveals items like your roof, or carpeting, need to be replaced or repaired, get estimates for the work. If you can't afford to make the repairs yourself, at least you can provide prospects with a list of known repairs that need to be done, and approximately how much it will cost to make the repairs. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home and the repairs.
Organize Warranties
Locate any and all warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for your furnace, heat pump, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items you expect to remain with the house. Prospects will appreciate seeing these items.
Spruce up Outside Too
Stand outside your home and look at everything from a buyer's perspective. Does the paint look worn? If so, paint. Are plants and flowers dying or gone dormant? If so, replace with current flowers to make things look inviting.
Following these tips will help you with your Gulf Shores home for sale.
Visit the Gulf Shores Home Selling Tips section of our website to your right under Gulf Shores Real Estate Categories for even more tips.