Once you’ve decided to put your home on the market, next comes the daunting task of getting it ready for showings. First impressions are important and you want your home to look at it’s best when potential buyers arrive. Here are some great tips for prepping your home for an open house so that those potential buyers become actual buyers.

8 Tips to Prep your home for an Open House:

De-clutter

It’s no surprise that de-clutter is the first item on the list. It is important to put all valuables and sentimental items somewhere else for safe keeping during the showing process. All realtors will tell you that this is extremely important. If you have areas that are overwhelmed with personal items or extra pieces of furniture you want to consider pairing down. Homes that look way too cluttered give the feeling that they are small. You want potential buyers to feel like the home and the rooms are large enough for their items. Also remember to remove things from countertops and surfaces as well as “trinkets”, mail, paper, etc. This is the perfect time to purge and get rid of those unwanted items, clothing and shoes that haven’t been worn in more than a year.

Organize Drawers and Closets

Many buyers will look in closets and drawers. Keep them organized and neat. If your closet or overwhelmed with clothes potential buyers with think it’s too small. Get a few storage bins and put off-season clothing and items away. Store them somewhere other than the closets or inside of the home where they become part of the clutter. Use a shed, garage or maybe a storage unit or attic. The more the potential buyers are able to see the house over stuff, the better the open house will be.

Deep Cleaning

A great way to keep your home looking at best is to give it a deep cleaning. Get the carpets cleaned, Give the window treatments a washing or a dusting. Be sure the windows, doors and mirrors don’t have mirrors don’t have fingerprints and dust and vacuum frequently. Keep garbage cans emptied and conceal dirty clothes in laundry baskets. Promptly wash or put dirty dishes in the dishwasher. This is also a great time to open some windows and doors and let some fresh air into the home before people come to look.

Fresh Coat of Paint

A fresh coat of paint will make a home look great. A coat of paint is a great way to hide scratches or imperfections as well. Re-grouting your tubs and sinks is also great way to make the bathroom look fresh and clean.

Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is important because it’s the first thing that buyers see when they pull up to your home. Use fresh flowers by your front door.  Keep your lawn mowed and free of loose debris, piles of leaves and weeds.  Putting a fresh coat of paint on your front door or adding a bright wreath will give your entryway an inviting look. Freshen up the flower beds with some fresh annuals or colorful plants along with some fresh mulch or gravel. This is typically inexpensive and makes the yard look like it is warm and inviting instead of unkempt.

Replace

If you have towels, bedding or window treatments that are outdated or worn looking you should consider replacement. Fresh linens will brighten up your home.

Let the Light In

Let the beautiful Florida sunshine naturally illuminate your home. Open up your blinds and window treatments to bring in the outside light.

Check your Light Bulbs

Even though you’re letting in natural light, you should also be sure that all of your light fixtures and bulbs work and are turned on for showings. The extra light will be beneficial for potential buyers so that they can see your house clearly and fully.

Take it a Step Further…

Taking children and pets with you out of the home before a showing ensures the safety of your loved ones.  Doors are sometimes left open during walk-throughs which could allow pets out, and potentially lost.  Also, having an occupant of the home present during a showing could make potential buyers feel uncomfortable to look around freely and take their time to make such a big decision. Some homeowners want to go the extra mile for showings. Playing soft music or having a candle burning in a neutral scent such as vanilla will make buyers feel comfortable. You should also have your flyers easily accessible with fresh flowers or candy next to them. There are many things that homeowners can do to get a home in showing condition. Make sure that your home is clean and organized and clutter free. Turning all the lights on and letting a natural lighting will also be helpful. If you follow these tips your open house will be a success and you will soon be getting offers. For all of your real estate needs call the experts at Tampa Bay Realty and Investment Group today.