Question:

I’m selling my house and would like to infuse a little “wow” factor to attract buyers. What do you suggest?

Answer:

Whether you’ve outgrown your home or are tackling a list of home-improvement projects, enhancing curb appeal is always a good idea this time of year. In order to give you (and your home) an edge in today’s competitive real estate market, focus on your home’s exterior as it’s the first impression to potential buyers. Touch up mailbox posts, window boxes, front doors, decks and other exterior wood surfaces with a fresh coat of stain or paint. Trim shrubs and ensure the yard is tidy; add fresh mulch around plants and sod around patchy areas of the lawn. Make sure pathways are well maintained and safe, and remember to create a focal point with colorful flowers on the front stoop to welcome visitors and entice passersby.

Now that you have your buyers inside, let’s really wow them! Get rid of as much clutter and unnecessary furnishings as possible — some people have a really hard time visualizing their belongings in new surroundings so minimize yours to help them plan their furniture layout. If you are planning on freshening up paints or flooring before the move, stick to neutral color palettes that will agree with the majority of folks out there. If your budget allows, many sellers are utilizing the services of real estate “stagers” who make your home look like a page right out of a decorating magazine. Stagers can mix in rented items with what you already own, reorganize your belongings and then add in a few carefully chosen decorative items or even clean out all of your belongings and create a virtual new interior space.

If you are looking to make some special additions before the move there are many new details that are being incorporated into home design to help homeowners with their busy lifestyles. Consider installing hidden wiring systems for flat-panel televisions, complete with secret access panels for the components. Laundry rooms are also becoming full work centers, boasting counters for ironing and folding and wall-mounted collapsible drying racks. Extra space is always a bonus so if you have the extra funds consider finishing the attic, basement or garage—it can boost your selling price and shorten your time on the real estate market. Good Luck with the sale and move!

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