Selling this Spring? 6-Month Plan to Get Your House Ready: Month 4

Schedule Professional Services

Does your house need a little work before it goes on the market?

It’s best to get bids on professional services, repairs or maintenance months or weeks ahead of listing your home for sale. Contractors can have a lead time of 6-8 weeks or more, so get ahead of the game and contact them early.

Common Things That Need Attention

Exterior:

Siding repairs
Door replacement
Paint
Asphalt sealcoating
Masonry work
Window repairs
Roof replacement

Interior:

Paint
Electrical work (non-working switches/outlets)
Plumbing work (drains, faucets, toilets)
Mechanical repair or replacement (furnace, air conditioner, water heater, air exchanger, water softener)
Flooring replacement (carpet, laminate, vinyl, tile) and wood refinishing
Kitchen updates (cabinets, counters, sink/faucet)
Bath updates (cabinets, counters, sink(s)/faucet(s), showers/tubs)
Appliance replacement
Lighting updates
Window screen repair
Fireplace repair or inspection
Interior and closet door repair or replace
Trim and millwork touch up or replace

The more your take care of, the more inclined buyers are to purchase and pay TOP DOLLAR for your home. The most desirable listings, the ones receiving multiple offers and over asking price, have the LEAST amount of issues (outdated finishes and things needing repair or replacement).

If you’re not sure where to start, it’s a good idea to speak with your agent about priorities.

Want an additional advantage over the competition?

If you’re really serious about getting the most you can for your house, get a pre-inspection. Buyers may pay asking or more, and make an offer without at contingency on inspection, if they can trust the house is in good shape.

As a seller, there are many ways you can position your house to stand out in the marketplace and make your desired profit. Get on it!

Missed the first three posts in this series? Check out:

Month 1: November, Clear out garage and storage
Month 2: December, Declutter closets
Month 3: January, Declutter kitchen and living spaces