Many sellers put enormous pressure on themselves when showing their home to potential buyers.  There’s no doubt that it is a critical part of selling a home; however, you can minimize the stress by following a few expert tips.  Here a just a few important things to remember when showing your home to sell. 

Cleanliness Goes a Long Way

Many people think that they need to invest thousands of dollars on renovations prior to listing their home.  While it might make sense to do a few simple and inexpensive upgrades (i.e paint, fixtures, etc.) you can actually make your home look stunning just by giving it a good deep clean.  Before listing your house, hire a team of professionals to give your home a deep clean.  (Shampoo carpets, wax hardwood floors, dust blinds and bookcases, and clean windows inside and out)  Once your house has been thoroughly cleaned, it is much easier to keep it that way by straightening up each day and giving counters and floors a daily wipe-down.  When potential buyers walk into a clean home, it immediately gives the impression that the home has been well cared for and it is more appealing to buyers.  While it is impossible to expect perfection, it is always a good idea to make the beds, put dishes in the dishwasher, pick up toys, and keep counters cleared off for every showing. 

You Want Buyers to Picture Their Family in the Home

As hard as it may be for you to take down your favorite family photos, it is important to remember that you are trying to sell your home.  This means you want potential buyers to be able to envision themselves living in your home.  This can be difficult when your walls, bookshelves, and end tables are adorned with pictures of your family.  It is important to depersonalize your home by removing pictures, political signs and posters, religious items, children’s artwork from the fridge, and any other personal items.

You Get One Chance to Make a Good First Impression

First impressions are everything and this certainly holds true when it comes to selling your home.  Spend a little time giving your home nice curb appeal.  Make sure the yard is maintained, plant a few flowers, paint your front door, add a few colorful cushions to outdoor chairs, and hang a nice wreath on the front door.  These little projects can go a long way in giving your home exceptional curb appeal.  You want buyers to feel at home from the minute they pull in the driveway.

Less is More

When you are getting ready to show your home it is important to remember that less is more.  Spend some time decluttering your home before showing it.  Get rid of any unwanted items, clean and organize your closets, clear off bathroom and kitchen counters, and store extra or oversized pieces of furniture.  Not only does it make your home appear cleaner and more organized, but your home will also seem brighter and larger when it is free of clutter.