#WednesdaysatHomeLove – How to Prepare for the Spring Market

How to Prepare for the Spring Market

Written by Karen Shaver of Home Love Hamilton.

Spring is the time that many sellers want to get their homes out there in time for the busy season. It’s important to start getting your home ready long before the snow is gone.

Here are a few things you can do to prepare for the spring market:

Choose a Realtor that suits you.

Get recommendations from friends and interview several listing agents to see which ones have the right experience with similar homes in your price range and area. A real estate agent with a great marketing plan and deep local knowledge is extremely important. Don’t just go with the one who tells you they can sell for the highest price; choose someone who can present you with a detailed market analysis.

Clear away the clutter

If you visit model homes or open houses of homes that have been staged, you’ll never see a stack of unread magazines, children’s artwork loosely hanging on the refrigerator, or a cluster of unpaid bills on a table. While everyone has clutter, buyers want to see a fantasy version of your house, in which they can envision living. Once your home is on the market you’ll need to keep it as neat as possible. One way to make that easier is to reduce the amount of clutter you have on your shelves and surfaces. Put away items that are regularly on your kitchen sink and pack away the family photos that gather dust.

Begin Packing and Organizing Your Belongings 

This process will help you to get ready for your move, in advance. Your home will look more spacious with fewer items around.  With less distractions a Buyer can focus on what is great about your house.  

Make Repairs and Improvements

While you don’t necessarily want to do a major, expensive renovation project before you sell, you can make minor repairs and improvements that will make your home look fresher to buyers. Try things such as replacing the caulk and grout in your bathroom, updating old or rusted ceiling fans and light fixtures, and changing switch plates, doorknobs and other hardware for a clean and neat appearance. Consider painting your front door and trim even if your rooms don’t need new paint.

Spruce up the Curb Appeal

Try painting your door a pretty hue that coordinates with your home’s colour. Try a contrast between the front door and the facade of the home. If your house is grey or white with black shutters, consider painting the front door red. Other ways to beautify your home’s exterior are adding appealing house numbers to your entrance and hanging a pretty wreath on the door. For extra pop, place a potted plant or two by the front entrance.