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| When preparing to sell your home, the best thing you can do is think of the house as a commodity. Try to separate yourself emotionally from your house and look at it through the eyes of a buyer. Decide whether you want to hire an agent to handle the sale, then do whatever it takes to put your home in its best condition.
Prepare for the sale by doing the following:
- Get a pre-sale inspection.
A pre-sale inspection can ward off costly surprises from the buyer's inspector. Inspections usually cost $300 to $400, but if the inspection reveals major termite damage or the need for a new roof, it could affect your decision to sell as well as your price. Always look for a qualified inspector.
- Deal with disclosures.
Most states now require sellers and their agents to disclose any issues that may affect a buyer's decision to purchase your home. Make sure you understand what you need to disclose and decide whether to make any repairs or adjust your asking price.
- Make appropriate repairs.
This is not the time to undertake major improvements. It is generally wiser to make only necessary repairs (such as replacing cracked windows or rickety front steps) and cosmetic improvements (such as painting the exterior and planting flower beds) that will enhance your home's salability.
- Neutralize your decor.
Eccentricities that you find charming may not charm a buyer. Consider replacing out-of-date carpeting, painting odd-colored rooms, and otherwise polishing your home's appearance. Pare down visible personal possessions. You may also want to kennel your pet during this time, and hire extra cleaning help while your house is on the market.
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