As autumn arrives in East Alabama, savvy home sellers can prepare for the buying season ahead of time. With a little foresight and effort, you can ensure your home shines by the time eager buyers are on the hunt in late spring and summer. Here’s a checklist to help future sellers get started on projects now!
Start with curb appeal.
First impressions matter, and curb appeal shapes buyer perception. Tidy the exterior: mow, trim bushes and plant seasonal flowers. A fresh coat of paint on the door or a new mailbox can also help.
Consider pressure washing the driveway and walkways for a clean, fresh look.
Focus on necessary repairs.
Buyers are often deterred by visible repairs or maintenance issues. Now is the time to address any leaky faucets, squeaky doors or cracked tiles. By fixing these small issues, sellers can prepare for the buying season and help prevent potential buyers from questioning the home’s overall condition.
Conduct a thorough inspection of your home or hire a professional to identify commonly missed repairs for a bigger head start.
Upgrade wisely.
While it’s tempting to undertake major renovations, focus on upgrades that yield the highest return on investment. Kitchen and bathroom upgrades often offer the best bang for your buck.
Simply adding energy-efficient appliances or updating cabinetry can be enough to attract potential buyers. Discover more about how to maximize a minor kitchen remodel for a high return here.
Declutter and stage.
A clean, well-organized home allows buyers to envision themselves living there. Declutter each room and stage it to highlight the home’s best features.
Store personal items and excess furniture to create a more inviting space.
Plan for professional photos.
High-quality photos can significantly impact how your home is perceived online. General tips for preparing for the photographer include decluttering, hiding personal items in closets, putting away paperwork in home offices and more. Schedule a professional photographer to capture your home in the best light.
Prepare each room by ensuring it’s clean and well-lit to maximize the photo session.
Summary
According to the Alabama Association of REALTORS®, summer is one of the busiest times for real estate in Alabama. Typically, the “hot” season starts in May and peaks in June through August. Hence, sellers can prepare for the buying season now to plan for a smoother, more successful sale later.
Not sure where to start? Check out Ryan Robert’s helpful contacts for trusted professionals ranging from lawn care to contractors to home inspectors. Next, contact Ryan for personalized guidance and to ensure your home is buyer-ready! Keep reading our blogs for more real estate and community news.
