Home gain recently did a survey stating that cleaning and declutting a home prior to it going on the market is a whopping 578% return on your investment.  Often times is does require professional assistance to overcome months or even years of build up, but more importantly the end results are astounding.

 

Thoroughly cleaning your home and freeing it from all clutter can be the most important of all pre-sale activities. Buyers want to imagine themselves in your home, but will have a difficult time if there is extensive clutter. It can be difficult to maintain an immaculate home over the period of time when it is shown to prospective buyers, but it is definitely worth it. Consider advising your clients rent short-term storage for excess furniture and other belongings.

 

Below is a list of tips to share with your sellers to better improve their marketable position by being completely ready for their buyers.

 

               

Before                                                                After

 

 

Organize closets, storage rooms and areas
Polish woodwork, metal and glass/mirrors/light fixtures
Clean windowsills, doorsills and shelves
Remove all of your personal possessions
Keep screens cleaned and vacuumed
Make stairwells and corridors clutter-free
Get rid of odors (e.g. pet, food, cigarette)
Clean or purchase new front door hardware
Clean the entryway carefully; it creates the buyer's first interior impression of your home
Clean the inside of all kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and neatly organize items on shelves
Ensure all doors, cabinets, and drawers can open completely, without any blockage
Remove appliances from kitchen counters to give a look of spaciousness
Make bathrooms sparkle; sinks, toilets and tubs should be immaculate
Keep bookshelves and entertainment units organized neatly
Remove excess furniture to give your home a spacious look

 

 

Studies show that the more photos you have of your listings, the fewer days a seller's home will remain on the market.  Marketing their home through a visual connection can gain more interest in the property.  Especially true if there is a great story that is being told through the photo lense.  Maximize your options for more images to capture your listing's best selling features.

 

Prepare you listings and ready them for great photos.  Why take a picture if it gives off the wrong message?   

 

  Is it enough, in this market just to fill MLS with photos like the one above? Yes, this is a beautiful home, but is it warm, welcoming and even inspiring? Does this make buyers want to see more?

 

 

 

This is the same room after staging. As part of our standard staging and marketing package, the after photos were provided to the agent after we are finished, allowing this agent to more effectively market this great home on a lake.

 

As a prospective buyers agent, which is more likely to inspire your clients to view the property?

 

As a prospective listing agent, which is more likely to get you higher offers and a faster sale?

 

More showings means increased likelihood of a quick sale.  A quick sale increases the liklihood of a good offer.  What are you waiting for?