6 Low-Cost Tips To Sell Your Home

Getting your home ready to sell does take a little work, but that doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money. Many of the projects you'll need to complete are low or no cost, and they all go a long way toward making the best possible impression on buyers.

1. Deep clean. Really, really, deep. Make sure to get the places no one sees, like hard-to-reach areas, corners, and under furniture. The fronts, tops, and all visible sides of appliances, especially the top of the refrigerator. The garage and closets should be cleaned out to show off storage space. Windows should be sparkling to let in as much natural light as possible.
2. Paint. For the money, paint makes the biggest impact. It's inexpensive, especially if you can do it yourself--and most people can. Make sure to fill and sand any nail holes before you paint. Stick with a neutral color so you don't get any strong negative reactions from buyers.
3. Make little repairs. Many will cost you nothing but time. And we all have those minor repairs we've put off and just gotten used to. Buyers haven't seen your house before so that they will notice. Tighten the handle on the cabinet, fix the broken hinge, lubricate the squeaky door, and replace that screw on the heating vent you duct-taped. Make anything that's a safety or security issue a top priority. Some examples are loose railings, windows or doors with broken locks, or an uneven walkway.
4. Stage your home. It can indeed cost a lot of money to have a professional stager come in and do the job, but there are some things you can do yourself. Get rid of extra or oversized furniture and anything that's just plain awkward. It makes the space seem smaller, which is something buyers definitely don't want. Rearrange what's left to look inviting and allow for free movement between rooms. Clear countertops, switch outdated light fixtures, and make the most of natural light to make rooms stand out.
5. Improve your curb appeal. Buyers start forming opinions about your home the second they pull up in the car. Luckily, basic yard work is something most people can do and doesn't cost much. Mow, edge, mulch, plant some colorful flowers, make sure the sidewalks are clean, and trim shrubs and trees. If you have a front porch, you can stage the area with some seating and a potted plant. Clean and paint your front door if necessary.
6. Go neutral. This advice applies to more than paint colors. You want your home to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible when you sell. Personal touches you've added to your home with décor, custom artwork, souvenirs, and personal belongings should be removed. Removing personal items and opting for colors with wide appeal helps buyers imagine what their lives will be like living in the house and avoids any strong negative reactions. And that makes them more likely to buy.

There are a lot of things you can do to get your home in top shape to sell. A little time and effort on your part can make buyers feel welcome and have them making offers in no time!

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