Admit it, we love to judge things — books by covers, bottles of wine by labels, you get my drift. So too is the case with potential buyers. Try as they might to imagine the home without your beloved puce colored walls, they just can’t. From the moment they walk in the front door, they are trying to determine if this is the right home for them and their family. The more it reflects you, the less they will see of themselves.
Here’s what they are likely to notice the most:
1. Light – A bright home is inviting. Make sure you fill your home with lots of natural light or a soft evening glow.
2. Smell – Nothing is less inviting than a strong odor. Even candles and air fresheners can be overwhelming. Less is more and make sure nothing unpleasant is lingering (no freshly baked — but accidentally burnt — cookie smell).
3. Space – Remove any unneeded furniture and offer a spacious home which flows.
4. Ceilings – Of course you can’t make your ceilings higher, but make sure they are free from water stains because buyers will look up.
5. Pictures and Personal Items – Remove personalization as much as possible so the buyers can imagine their family in the home.
6. Outdated Furnishings and Fixtures – If your home is filled with hand-me-downs, consider a professional stager. Old wall paper or outdated paint colors should be replaced as well.
7. Dirty, Grimy Rooms – Most important, clean everything thoroughly. Nothing is less appealing than a dirty home.
If you have your home for sale (or are planning on it), paying attention to what the buyers notice can mean the difference between an offer and a missed opportunity. Ensure you check out my post on curb appeal and download my ultimate home staging checklist.