INTERIORS:

Appeal to the senses: There are many ways to create a more exciting and saleable interior, at surprisingly little cost. I’ll briefly discuss the sensory selling tools that can have an enormous impact, then provide you with some suggestions:

LIGHT: It is proven that people react more favorably to the property shown under bright light than dark. The following steps should help you keep your room as bright as possible. Keep windows clean. Use adequate wattage in light bulbs. Consider replacing old fluorescent lamps. Use mirrors to magnify the feeling of light and space. Use light wall colors. Open drapes and blinds and turn on lights prior to showing.

COLOR: A fundamental rule when selling your house is to keep colors neutral and light. Avoid highly patterned wallpaper whenever possible. Limit bright colors to accents like flowers, towels, area rugs, and shower curtains.

SOUND: The sounds of peace and quiet are some of the best sounds to have when your home is being shown to a prospective buyer. Other considerations are: Avoid barking dogs and noisy children, if possible. Avoid sounds like vacuums, dishwashers, and lawnmowers. Light classical or instrumental music can be effective to create a pleasing atmosphere.

SMELL: Smell has more impact than you might expect. The smell of newness is positive. Also, the smell of cleanliness is important to the selling environment of your home. Fresh flowers can be very effective. Smells to avoid are pet odors, tobacco, cooking, and oil or gas.

PREPARING THE INTERIOR:ENTRY: The entry is where the first impression of the interior is created. Here you have the opportunity to make a big statement in a small area. If need be: Repaint the entry using light, neutral colors. Tile or linoleum flooring should shine. Replace plastic switch plate covers with brass or porcelain. A new hall light fixture can make a big impression. Make sure the area is well-lit.

KITCHEN: The kitchen is perhaps the most important room in the house. Make sure the kitchen is virtually spotless and smells fresh. Consider replacing outdated light fixtures with new track lighting. If your appliances are dated by colors like harvest gold or avocado, consider having them professionally refinished in a new color like almond or white. This will make the appliances look new at a fraction of the cost to replace them. Spruce up cabinets by installing new knobs or hardware. Organize cabinets to demonstrate how much room you have. Remove small kitchen appliances from countertops to create an uncluttered look. Chipped or damaged countertops should be replaced or repaired.

BATHROOMS: The bathroom has become an important selling feature in today’s home. It is a room that has moved from the utilitarian to the exciting. There are many ways you can improve deficiencies and create interest by Placing a vase of fresh flowers on the vanity. Install a wall telephone for a high-tech look. Replace the old toilet seat with a new one. Replace the old light fixture with a new style light strip or makeup light. Refinish an old porcelain tub using a porcelain finishing service. Place all personal care articles out of sight. Freshen the air with lemon-scented products. Replace old towel racks with new ones. Add color and richness with new towels and shower curtains.

LIVING ROOM: Use mirrors whenever possible to enhance the perception of size. Show the fireplace off to its best advantage. Sweep clean and make sure the screen is in good condition. Remember buyers look for “impressive living rooms!

BEDROOMS: The bedrooms can do as much to sell your house as they can to turn off a buyer. Make sure the bedrooms are spotless. Organize closets to increase their perceived size. Bedrooms should be well-lit.

THE END RESULT: By showing attention to detail and understanding the buyer’s need to visualize your house against a neutral backdrop, you can dramatically increase the saleability of your property. And, I will be very happy to assist you with recommendations to help your house sell for the highest price, with the best terms and conditions, in the shortest time possible.