How A Tidy Home Speeds Up The Selling Process

A tidy home is a powerful asset when it comes to selling your property quickly. In 2023, a well-staged and clutter-free home was shown to reduce time on the market by up to 73%, as prospective buyers are more likely to make an offer on homes that are visually appealing and move-in ready. 

Staging key rooms, such as the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom, can enhance a buyer’s ability to visualize themselves in the space, which 81% of real estate agents agree is key for a fast sale.

Decluttering and deep cleaning have been proven to increase perceived home value, making it easier to attract competitive offers. 

With the average cost of decluttering around $523, it’s a relatively low investment that can significantly boost your return on investment (ROI) and streamline the selling process

Maintaining cleanliness throughout the selling period ensures that inspections and appraisals proceed smoothly, which can reduce the time between receiving an offer and closing the deal As housing markets continue to evolve, these simple steps can make a substantial difference in how quickly your home sells

Maximizing Your Home’s Appeal For A Fast Sale

Selling a home quickly and for the best possible price requires careful preparation and attention to detail. From decluttering and cleaning to staging and price evaluation, taking the right steps can significantly speed up the selling process. 

Below, we explore five key areas that are key to creating an appealing home that attracts buyers and leads to a successful, fast sale.

Declutter And Organize

The first step in preparing your home for sale is decluttering. Buyers need to envision themselves living in the space, and clutter prevents that from happening. 

Begin by removing excess furniture, decorations, and personal items. Rooms that are crowded or over-personalized can make your home seem smaller and less appealing.

• Start With Small Spaces: Focus on small, easy-to-overlook spaces first, such as closets, storage rooms, and pantries. These areas can easily become crowded and disorganized, detracting from your home’s overall presentation.
• Packing As You Go: As you declutter, begin packing items you won’t need while your home is on the market. Not only does this help reduce clutter, but it also prepares you for the eventual move.
• Professional Assistance: If decluttering feels overwhelming, you may want to consider hiring a professional organizer. This can cost anywhere from $55 to $100 per hour, but it may be a worthwhile investment if it speeds up the process and results in a more attractive space.

Deep Cleaning

After decluttering, deep cleaning is great for presenting your home in the best possible light. A clean home signals to buyers that the property has been well cared for, and this can make a significant difference in both the speed and price of the sale.

• Cleaning From Top To Bottom: Start by dusting and cleaning walls, ceilings, and light fixtures. Pay special attention to areas that often accumulate dust, such as ceiling fans and baseboards.
• Professional Carpet Cleaning: If your carpets are showing signs of wear, consider having them professionally cleaned. The cost ranges from $285 to $630 depending on the size of your home, but clean carpets can make a big difference in how your home is perceived.
• Focus On Key Areas: Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most scrutinized areas in any home. Clean all surfaces, appliances, and fixtures thoroughly, ensuring that countertops and sinks shine.

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see. Enhancing curb appeal is one of the most effective ways to attract buyers and increase your home’s perceived value.

• Landscaping: Simple landscaping improvements such as mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and planting fresh flowers can instantly make your home more inviting. A well-maintained yard signals that the rest of the home is also cared for.
• Power Washing: Consider power washing the exterior of your home, including the driveway, walkways, and siding. Removing dirt and grime can make a big difference in how your home looks from the street.
• Entryway Improvements: An inviting entryway is key to creating a welcoming atmosphere. Add a planter with fresh flowers, and ensure that the front door is clean and in good condition. These small touches can make a big impact.

Staging And Neutralizing Your Home

Staging your home helps potential buyers imagine themselves living there, which can lead to faster and higher offers. While you can stage your home yourself, many sellers find it beneficial to hire a professional stager.

• Professional Staging: Professionally staged homes can sell for up to 13% more than unstaged homes, making it a worthwhile investment for many sellers. The cost of staging typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the size of the home.
• Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to highlight the flow of each room and create clear pathways. Ensure that each room has a defined purpose, so buyers can easily envision how they would use the space.
• Neutral Décor: When staging your home, it’s important to depersonalize and neutralize the décor. Remove personal photos and niche decorations, and use neutral color schemes to appeal to a broad range of buyers. Fresh flowers or fruit bowls can add simple, tasteful touches that make the space feel inviting.

Pricing Your Home Right

Setting the right price is critical to selling your home quickly. An overpriced home can sit on the market for months, while an underpriced home can leave money on the table. To strike the right balance, it’s important to work with your real estate agent and conduct thorough market research.

• Home Price Evaluation: Start by getting a home price evaluation, either through a real estate agent or an online tool. This evaluation will give you a clear understanding of your home’s current market value, allowing you to set a competitive asking price.
• Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): A CMA compares your home to similar properties that have recently sold in your area, taking into account factors like size, location, and condition. This is one of the most reliable ways to determine your home’s value.
• Pricing Strategy: Work closely with your real estate agent to determine the best pricing strategy. In some cases, pricing slightly below market value can generate multiple offers, driving the final sale price higher than expected.

Wrapping Up

In addition to decluttering and staging, consider the importance of timing and market trends when selling your home. Listing your property during peak buying seasons, such as spring or early summer, can increase buyer interest and help you sell faster. 

Investing in energy-efficient upgrades, like better insulation or LED lighting, can make your home more appealing to environmentally conscious buyers, potentially increasing its value. 

Working with a seasoned real estate agent ensures that you stay informed about market dynamics and position your home for a quick and successful sale.