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Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Create a Marketing Plan, Then Work It

Following up on last week's post concerning seller's fears when their property has been on the market quite a while, we have the following things for you to consider to assist in the sale of your home:

MERCHANDISING

Are you offering a "Home Warranty" as part of the benefits of purchasing the home you have on the market?  Maybe you should.  In most cases for less than $500 you can supply a protection plan that covers many of the home's major systems and appliances that can fail during the buyer's first year of ownership.  Today's buyers are picky, give them something extra and grab their attention.

ATMOSPHERE

Create a warm and welcoming feel in the home.  Make sure the temperature in your home is comfortable; keep it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.  A nice fire in the fireplace will also add to the cozy atmosphere. 

APPEARANCE

CLEAN EVERYTHING!  Cleanliness signals to the buyer that the home has been well cared for and most likely in good repair.  A well presented home is extremely important. 

LET THE LIGHT IN.  Raise the shades.  Open the blinds.  Pull back the curtains.  Put brighter bulbs in all the lamps (but not bright enough to cause discomfort to the eyes) Bright rooms feel larger and more inviting.

LET FRESH AIR IN.  People are most often offended by strong odors from tobacco, pets, cooking, and musty or sour laundry.  Smells that attract positive attention include freshly baked cookies or bread.  Adding a bouquet of fresh flowers can work wonders as well.

SEND THE PETS AWAY or secure them away from the house.  You never want a prospective buyer to have to avoid animal droppings and you never know if people will be annoyed, intimidated or may even be allergic to those pets you love so well.

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Next week we will provide a check list for you to use when cleaning or getting ready to complete small maintenance issues in your home.

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