Buyers are looking for homes that sparkle. Some homes for sale on Cape Cod have been recently renovated and benefit from fresh paint, new floors or carpets, and updated appliances in the kitchen, bath or both. A home with newer updates is definitely more appealing to buyers (but worth it? Please see our thoughts here) and with our simple trick you too can make your home look its best without spending thousands of dollars.
Ready? Vinegar, warm water, elbow grease. No kidding. Too often we see homes that are, quite simply, dirty. Many sellers do a decent job cleaning their homes by sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping floors. What so many people miss are the walls! Spend a little time with some diluted white vinegar and wash every surface in your home. You will be amazed at how much grime can appear on a rag from, what you thought was, a 'clean' flat wall. Spend a little extra time by beds, furniture, paintings, and anywhere that people touch (light switches, around door knobs etc...). Haven't you noticed that light discoloration on the wall when you move the bureau? When your home is empty and that bureau is gone, every potential buyer walking through will notice it as well. Another great tip: use a 'Magic Eraser' or similar product for larger marks, but be careful, these can change the texture of paint which is very visible in certain light.
If you are trying to squeeze every ounce of potential value out of your homes consider this inexpensive way to make it more appealing to buyers. When someone walks in and can see everything that is wonderful about your home without the distraction of dirty walls, you give yourself a great shot at a higher sale price!
If you are considering listing your home, please give us a call to put two generations of tradition and three decades of experience in your pocket. And to see a few houses that don't need this treatment take a look at some of our listings here. Or for some more tips for homeowners check out our blogs tagged here.
