Top 8 things I’ve learned from showing houses
In my time as a 100 Mile House realtor, I’ve shown a ton of houses and there are always a few things that make a big impact on buyers. And the best part is that they’re completely affordable and achievable! So if you want your home to be “the one” then here are my 8 top tips on how to keep those buyers coming back for more!
Declutter!!! This is one of the most important things you can do. Lots of people can’t see past what the current owners have in the house. So keep it simple and tasteful! Rent a storage space for the extra items you don’t want to part with. Think Marie Kondo and you’ll be laughing!
I recently showed a house that had freshly baked cookies out with a little “help yourself” sign. After 4 hours of showing, it was appreciated, I’ll tell you that much! I almost wanted to buy the house myself after that!! And along those same lines, if you’ve got good water, leave some glasses out for buyers to have a taste. It’s all about the little gestures.
The best houses I’ve shown have always had information packs for the buyers to look through. Documentation, pictures from other seasons, explanations of how things work. Make it easy for your buyers! Leave it on the table for them to flip through.
Try to make sure the curtains are open to let the sun in. Also ensure that the house is at a comfortable temperature and all the lights are on before a showing. It makes the best impression as buyers walk in. There’s nothing more uninviting than coming into a freezing cold, dark house.
What does your house smell like? This is one of the most important first impressions. Keep it smelling clean and fairly neutral… Leave the wax burners off!!! Don’t even think about incense. Those things are too overpowering and leave people thinking you’re trying to cover up something more sinister. A clean, fresh smell is usually the best option. Baking works for some, but not for others (it works for me… Fresh bread? Cookies? Yes please!). Diffusing essential oils is ok in my books. It’s a simpler scent. Just be choosy on what to diffuse. Lemon is a good option.
Be smart about where you leave your pet furnishings. Keep them stored away. And if you have a cat litter box… for the love of all things good, keep it clean, fresh and located in an inconspicuous place!
Curb appeal! Let’s face it, people are visual creatures. So mow the lawn, ensure your garbage bins are neat, plant a few shrubs and flowers. A well-kept exterior will give buyers a sense that the house has been well cared for over the years.
When you’ve been in your home for a few years you tend to stop seeing some of the things that need touching up. Try and look with fresh eyes and get those things done. That bit of trim that needs to be added. That paint job that wasn’t finished. That sagging gutter filled with dead leaves. That light fixture hanging at a funny angle. Get it done! It will make so much difference, I promise.
These simple upgrades can enhance your selling potential without breaking the bank. They could be the difference between money in your pocket and an empty open house. Drop me a line if you’re thinking of selling and would like a little guidance from someone who knows what buyers are after.
About Sallee
I was born in the Yukon, brought up in BC and Alberta and lived in Australia, New Zealand and England. Even though the places and scenery have changed over the years, one thing has always stayed the same. Home is where your heart is. Putting a price tag on something as personal as a home can feel overwhelming. That's why for me as a REALTOR®, selling houses is much more than numbers. It's about people. Wherever you are in the world, in life or on your journey with real estate, these relationships matter.