A Buyer's Perspective

Written By Paige Earles.

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Selling a home for the highest price possible and in the shortest amount of time possible is what every seller is trying to achieve. However, critical mistakes are made by almost every seller, which result in a lower sales price and a longer time on the market. The #1 reason this occurs is because the seller didn’t view their home from a buyer’s perspective. Viewing your home as if you were a buyer can be a very difficult task, so to help you with this sometimes daunting task, I’ve listed some suggestions and tips for enhancing your home’s appeal.

The very first turn-off for a buyer is a property that’s on the market for a higher price than is reasonable given the current market conditions. In fact, if your home is overpriced, most buyers will never even step foot inside your front door! It is critically important to complete a Comparable Market Analysis to avoid overpricing.

First impressions are everything, so make sure the exterior of your home is appealing and inviting.
The front entryway is the buyer’s first impression of the interior, so make sure it’s open and inviting, and let in as much natural light as possible.
Consider removing old, dirty carpet and replacing with hardwood floors.
Remove outdated appliances and replace with stainless steel appliances.
Don’t leave buyers in the dark. Make sure your home has a combination of task, ambient, and decorative lighting.
Organize your closets with closet organizers.
Granite countertops are the top pick for buyers.
A fresh coat of neutral, warm colored paint is a great investment.
Family photos, collectibles, and personal items distract a buyer, so put them away.
Fixtures should be coordinated throughout the home, including knobs, handles, and faucets.

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