Nanci Fulton

It is a seller’s market in Squamish and many parts of British Columbia but that doesn’t mean you can get lazy when selling your home. Despite the low inventory of houses on the market, expect buyers to be educated and savvy when it comes to purchasing a new home. For this reason it is important to ensure your home is up to scratch in order to get the price you desire. Over the years practicing real estate I have noticed there are some easy preparations you can do to maximize the value of your property. Here are my 8 Tips for Getting the Best Price for your Home.

Organize and Declutter

There is nothing that turns a buyer off more than a house full of clutter. It is difficult for prospective buyers to envision themselves in your home if there are items strewn around in an unorganized manner. Personal items such as photos, and keep-sakes can often be a deterrent to people looking to buy a new home. It is advised to clear out clutter before you put your home on the market and organize it in a way that is appealing to the eye. Put away your personal items and in some cases, move belongings into storage to give your home a clean and neutral feel.

Staging goes a Long Way

Staging can range from minor adjustments in your home to complete overhauls with borrowed furniture and décor. Simple staging can be done with a little re-decorating and strategic placement of furniture, pillows and decorative items. Professional stagers are another option and can completely make-over your house to a cover worthy display home. Many Realtors have a keen eye for staging and if not, will be able to recommend a professional.

Repairs around the House

If you have outstanding repairs around the house, it is best to address them before you put your home on the market. Small defects such as a broken fence, chipped paint and loose door handles are quick fixes but can cost you in the long run if they aren’t addressed. A prospective buyer can be automatically turned off if there are small repairs needed around the house. They may automatically think, “what else is there needing fixing that I can’t see?”

Outdoor Maintenance

Often the outdoor area is where people pass their first judgements; a tidy outdoor space speaks volumes for first impressions of the home. Mowing the lawn, sweeping leaves and cleaning up any debris around the home is essential when having buyers inspect your property.

Audit Your Systems and Appliances

Before putting your home on the market it is important to ensure all of your appliances and systems are in working order. The last thing you want is surprises popping up in your building inspection that could be costly and delay the process. Make sure that your heating systems, electrical system, and plumbing systems are all in working order before listing your home for sale.

Replace Burnt out Lightbulbs

Another easy fix that shouldn’t be neglected. By replacing burnt out light bulbs you will give the impression that everything in the home is taken care of and in working order. By neglecting simple maintenance jobs like this you may give prospective buyers the impression that other simple repairs around the home have also been neglected.

Be Flexible for Showings

Once your house is on the market and priced correctly expect that it will generate a lot of interest. Ensure your home is accessible while it is for sale. If you have tenants inform them of their rights during the process. Make sure to keep the house neat and tidy, be ready for inspections and be flexible when your Realtor calls with prospective buyers. It may be slightly inconvenient at first but overall will result in your home being sold more quickly.

Know the Market Conditions

Even though the current market is hot you need to be realistic in your pricing. Consider your neighbourhood, the condition of your home, the year it was built and the aspects of your lot. Monitoring the sale price of other homes in your neighbourhood will give you a good indication of what yours may sell for. Consult with an experience Realtor and get a market evaluation to determine the maximum price you can expect for your home in the current market.

If you are thinking about selling your home in the Sea to Sky, I would be happy to sit down with you and discuss the process. Starting with a walk through of your home and a current market evaluation we can discuss what your property is likely to sell for in today’s market, and what (if any) repairs should be addressed before your home is put on the market. Contact me today for a free market evaluation and take advantage of this great seller’s market in the Sea to Sky.