How to Prepare Your Home for an Open House
If you’re in the process of selling your home you can probably expect to have at least one open house, where both real estate agents and potential buyers have are given the chance to walk through your home without scheduling an appointment. While open houses will typically draw a lot of people who might be casually looking for a new home, or who might even just be curious about your house, they do also attract serious buyers, especially in competitive real estate markets like New York City and the surrounding areas. Thus, it’s important to take the time to make your house look its best beforehand. Here’s how to prepare your home for an open house.
Clear the Clutter
Not only are haphazard stacks of mail, piles of kid’s toys, or rooms overstuffed with furniture look unattractive, they make your home seem smaller. Pack items that clog the space into boxes and stash them in the garage or a storage unit while your house is up for sale.
Clean the Closets
Before your open house, take the time to get organized by straightening up closets and cabinets (buyers will look in them!). Like the clutter that’s left out in the open, a jam-packed closet or kitchen cabinets will make it seem like there isn’t enough room to store things in your home.
Light a Candle
Things like pets and food can give your home scents you’re completely unaware of. Lighting a candle in a welcoming, warm scent like vanilla or pumpkin will immediately make it seem more homey, and mask any potential smells that might turn off a buyer.
Touch up the Paint
It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for a room. While you don’t need to paint the whole house, consider giving any rooms that look dingy or dirty a fresh coat. It’s a relatively small effort compared to the return it can garner from a buyer.
Consider Curb Appeal
First impressions always count in home buying, which is why it’s crucial to make sure the exterior of your home is neat and welcoming. Small changes like a new exterior door or light fixture, a flag hanging out front, flowers in the window boxes, or even a wreath can make a big difference in the curb appeal of your home.
Give it a Good Scrub.
This almost goes without saying, but homebuyers want to feel like the house they’re purchasing is neat and well cared for. Cleaning your home top-to-bottom is one of the best ways to make it look its best.
