When purchasing a home, what most Marin buyers want is a home that not only fits their particular criterion but is also beautiful and "move in ready". So as you prepare to sell, be sure to cover the items on this check list:
Basic Home Preparation Check List
• Complete any needed painting and repairs.
• Check your curb appeal and update your landscaping if necessary.
• Remove all clutter and personal items such as family photos and fridge magnets.
• Clean and organize closets and cupboards and get rid of all unnecessary items.
• Edit and minimalize your furniture and accessories.
• Clean off kitchen counters of all but the most essential appliances (if any).
• Clear bathroom counters of personal items. Put the things you need to use everyday in a box or basket under the sink and pull it out only when you need it.
• Have your home, including carpets and windows cleaned and keep it sparkling and free of unpleasant odors.
• Unless you have a good design sense and really know home sales, get advice from your agent and a home stager about furniture arrangement, editing and replacement, what colors to paint, focal points etc.
Home Staging
Remember, especially in this tough market, that you are not just selling rooms and views - you're also selling ambiance and lifestyle. When a buyer walks in, you want them to look around and think "Oh yea - I'd love living here - this is great!". Experts say that buyers decide within seconds whether or not they like your home. First impressions count and you only have one chance to make a great first impression.
This is where good stagers are worth their weight in gold. Research shows that well staged homes sell approximately 32% faster than unstaged or empty homes. And they sell for 3% to 10% more. We're talking thousands of dollars in saving here. Good home staging more than pays for itself.
The Difference Between Staging And Interior Design
The job of an interior designer is to help you beautifully express your individuality and uniqueness in your home & furnishings. A home stager's job is almost the opposite. Their job is to neutralize your home so that it has the broadest possible appeal. Both types of designers want to create a "wow" - but while the interior designer's "wow" is individual, the stager's "wow" is more generic and seeks a broader appeal.
