7 Steps to a Quick and Profitable Home Sale

If you have a home for sale in Sarasota, it is reasonable to believe that all the new construction we are seeing is adding to your market’s competition. That means presentation can make all the difference to prospective homebuyers who is considering your home over one with the new home smell. From what I have witnessed, staging ideas that might seem obvious deserve discussion.

A well-staged home not only sells faster but oftentimes the effort will command a higher price.

Staging just means getting it ready to sell, so don't be put off by the word. I have put together seven essential tips on staging, improving curb appeal, and other strategies that will position your home to seriously compete in this vibrant market.

Enhance Your Curb Appeal

First impressions are crucial! Begin by enhancing your home’s curb appeal to make a strong initial impact. In Sarasota, where the sun shines brightly most days, ensuring your landscaping is pristine is vital. Trim the bushes, mow the lawn, and consider adding colorful native flowers that withstand the sun. Repainting your front door in a welcoming color and replacing old house numbers can also make a significant difference with little effort or money. Call me for a free no obligation consultation on selling your home at (941) 549-4010.

Declutter and Depersonalize

The next step is to declutter and depersonalize the rooms in your home. Take down religious artifacts. Prospective buyers should be able to envision themselves living in the space, which can be difficult to portray if your personal, religious, or political belongings dominate the scene.

As lovely as your family is to you, remove family photos, keepsakes, and excessive decorative items. Speaking of treasures, be sure to lock away expensive items in a safe place. Clearing off countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms also helps to create a sense of space.

Maximize Natural Light

Sarasota is known for its beautiful natural light, and making the most of it can make your home more appealing. Open all curtains and blinds during showings to let in as much light as possible. Consider removing heavy drapes if they make rooms look dark or small. If natural light is limited, ensure that rooms are well-lit.

Refresh with High Quality Paint

A fresh coat of high quality paint in a neutral palette can transform a space, making it appear larger, cleaner, and more inviting. The neutral color will help potential homebuyers visualize what they can do with the room. This will make it easier for the prospective buyer to imagine it as their own.

Stage Key Areas

Focus your staging efforts on the rooms that will make the biggest impact, such as the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen. In the kitchen, seemingly small updates like new cabinet hardware or a new backsplash can be cost-effective yet greatly impactful. In the living areas and bedrooms, make sure furniture is arranged to create open, inviting spaces that flow well.

Address Any Maintenance Issues

Performing a pre-market home inspection is an option. Prospective buyers will be looking for any signs that could indicate neglect. Address maintenance issues before positioning your home on the market. Remember that you are competing with new construction homes. Be sure to fix leaky faucets, replace burnt-out light bulbs, and erase any scuffs on the floors or walls. Attention to these details can go a long way in demonstrating that a home has been well-cared-for.

Create an Inviting Atmosphere

Finally, create an inviting atmosphere. A few well-placed plants, soft background music during showings, and a pleasant aroma (think freshly baked cookies or simmering coffee) can make your home feel warm and welcoming.

By implementing these tips, you'll not only enhance the appeal of your home but also maximize its potential in the Sarasota real estate market. Remember, the goal is to make potential buyers feel at home from the moment they walk through the door.

Forest Balderson is a Realtor® at Coldwell Banker Downtown Sarasota and has a BA in Creative Writing. He is also the Vice Chair of the RASM Realtors Charitable Foundation Fundraising Committtee. Click here to get an estimated value of your home. Click here for testimonials.