Education » Articles » Home Sales
Home Sales
Analysts expect another h3 year for home sales. Historically, spring is the best
time to sell houses. If you plan to sell, make sure you're ready before you list
your home.
Affordable Financing
A home equity loan or line of credit can help you pay for your home repairs. Simply
pay off the line when you sell your home. UW
Credit Union's home equity rates are so low, you can't lose!
Curb Appeal
To spark interest, make sure your home has curb appeal. Your front door is the first
thing buyers will see, so be sure it is clean; apply a fresh coat of paint if necessary.
Repair any broken shutters, screens or doors. Keep your yard well manicured and
uncluttered.
Lighting
Open curtains to let in natural light. Make sure windows are clean. Turn on all
outside and inside lights when showing your home at night, and even in the daytime
in rooms that have few windows or let in little light. Use higher-watt light bulbs
if necessary.
Fixtures
Fix leaky faucets. Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty or worn-out
plumbing. Clean sinks and tubs until they sparkle.
Important Details
Attention to detail is key. Shoppers assume that if you take care of details, you've
also taken care of the necessities, like routine maintenance to the furnace, air
conditioning, etc. Make sure doors, windows, and cabinets don't stick or have loose
knobs. Closet doors should move smoothly. Windows should open easily.
Rooms
Replace faded walls and worn woodwork with wallpaper or fresh paint. In the bathroom,
repair damaged or discolored caulking around the bathtub, and be sure the towels
and rugs are bright and clean. In bedrooms, remove all excess furniture and launder
bedspreads and curtains.
Storage Areas
Make closets appear bigger by organizing them. Display the full value of your attic,
basement, and other utility space (including crawl spaces) by removing all unnecessary
articles and debris. If necessary, rent a storage unit and move your excess baggage
to it.
Atmosphere
Don't have too many people present during a viewing. This can make the potential
buyer feel uncomfortable and want to hurry through your house. Turn off the stereo
and television to create a more relaxed environment. Keep pets away or at an alternative
location. You'll want your home to smell fresh and clean. Open windows or spray
room fresheners before visitors arrive. (Be careful not to over do it.)
Approach
Be courteous and friendly, but don't insist on conversing with a potential buyer.
Never apologize for the appearance of your home. Emphasize the virtues of your home.
Don't try to sell your furnishings to a potential buyer. This is a turnoff and could
cause you to lose the sale.
