Maximize Your Home’s Value

Bear Realty’s experience has shown that putting your home in top condition not only makes it more attractive but also more valuable to home buying prospects. We recommend that you consider the following tips to maximize your home’s value for selling and to help you obtain more money for your home:

1. “You Never Get a Second Chance to Make a Good First Impression.”

Start with your front yard – the first thing that prospective buyers see. Fertilize if needed, and always keep your lawn and bushes trimmed. During winter, keep snow and ice removed from sidewalks and steps, which can also be a safety issue.

2. The front door welcomes the prospect…

Make sure that it is clean and freshly painted. A seasonal door decoration adds a warm, inviting touch.

3. Fresh, neutral decorating helps assure top dollar…

Keeping simple decor can help with a quick sale. Faded walls and worn and scratched woodwork reduce appeal. Peeling paint and loose wallpaper should be attended to, but don’t tackle any major redecoration without consulting with your Bear Agent. If your home was constructed prior to 1978, please obtain information regarding lead based paint issues from your Bear Agent.

4. Clean windows, highlights your walls and ceilings and let more light in your rooms.

Keep all windows (tracks if applicable) and mirrors sparkling while your home is on the market. And unless there is an offensive view, open the drapes and blinds. Repair and/or replace cracked/broken windows and torn screens.

5. A clean kitchen is a MUST!

Many buyers judge the housekeeping by kitchens. Anything that will shine (glass, chrome, etc.) should be shining! Clean out kitchen cabinets and pack away items not needed. Counter tops should be clean and free of clutter. And even though it’s a pain, spiff up the oven and inside of the dishwasher (at least the door). It really makes a difference!

6. Sparkling bathrooms help sell homes…

Repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Mirrors, shower doors, ceramic tile and grouting should be cleaned and free of soap film. Fixtures should be polished and free of water marks. If there’s a window in your bathroom, open it and let fresh air in!