5 Tips for a Quicker Home Sale

By Suzanne Fox

Nothing looks worse to a potential home buyer than an unkept home that shows signs of lack of regular maintenance. If you are trying to sell your home, or if you just want your home to look better, take a few simple measures to make sure your home measures up to the neighborhood and other homes on the market.

Scout for Ideas
Drive around and get ideas from your neighbors. See how they have landscaped, used color schemes and hidden unsightly air conditioners or garden hoses. You will be amazed at some of the tricks of the trade, like lattice work around an air conditioner with a pretty vine to conceal the dull putty-colored unit.

First Impressions
Would you believe your mailbox is one of the first things people will notice about your home? A old rusted mailbox that is falling down is going to make a potential buyer think you havenít maintained your home. Your local home store has pre-cut posts and mailbox kits that are easy to install.

Under Pressure
A little pressure washing can go a long way and increase the value of your home by thousands! A clean house that has been pressure washed and is free of mold, mildew, dirt, grime and water marks is going to make you and the new buyer see the real potential in your home. If your paint is chipping, you may have to add a fresh coat, but make sure it is the same or a similar color. It will cost you a lot less in the long run to paint your house the same color. Stay away from wild or bright colors that do not fit with surrounding homes, as it could cost you a lower appraisal. Pay special attention to the entrance of your home. Paint the door if needed, and make sure the porch or landing is clean and inviting with a new welcome mat.

Top It Off
A new buyer is not going to want to deal with repairing a roof. Replace broken or faded shingles and soffits. Your house value could be reduced by the amount of the repairs, so go ahead and make the repair. You stand a better chance of someone going inside if they donít see a lot of repairs required on the outside.

Color My World
An overgrown garden is not appealing. Trim, cut and maintain the yard with weed killer or fertilizer. Weed and mulch flower beds, and, most importantly, add color. A couple of $15 flats at the home store can add thousands to the curb appeal of your home.

Happy selling!

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