First-time buyers of homes, who account for 32% of house hunters, can benefit greatly from having a real estate agent walk them through the process. Current homeowners putting their house on the market are often in need of guidance as well. Whether you’re interested in buying or selling a home, the first phone call you make should be to your local real estate company. In fact, 78% of people who recently purchased a home reported that their real estate agent was very informative. Here are a few things that an agent will most likely advise you to do.
1. Landscaping
Before selling your home, roughly 90% of real estate agents recommend making an investment in landscaping, and with good reason. A beautifully landscaped house can sell for 5.5% to 12.7% more than comparable houses. Studies also show that landscaping can increase the overall value of your home by as much as 28%. Once the landscaping work is completed, accent it with dramatic lighting.
2. Help Your Home Flaunt What Its Got.
Your lawn looks lovely, and the landscaping is stunning. But there’s more work to be done, and it will be well worth it. Homeowners usually receive a 100% ROI (return on investment) on the amount they spent increasing the curb appeal of their home, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve a wonderful overall effect. DIY Network suggests inexpensive touches that make a big impact, such as giving your front door a fresh coat of paint and adding a striking new doorknob and door knocker to catch the eye. If you have a front porch, make the most of it by accenting it with curtains. Make sure your welcome mat looks, well, welcoming. Show your mailbox and garage door some love by updating them as well.
It’s What’s Inside That Counts.
Now that your home’s exterior has been given a makeover, HGTV Network reminds you not to forget your home’s interior. Every room should be squeaky clean, in good repair, and clutter-free. You’ll also want to remove family photos so that prospective buyers can envision their own belongings in the home. Consider toning down any brightly colored rooms with a more neutral shade of paint.
Buying or selling a home is exciting and a bit daunting at the same time. Just remember that your real estate agent is there to offer suggestions to ensure that your home is shown to its best advantage, and to make sure that the entire process runs as smoothly as possible.
