As spring heats up, so does the housing market. Warm, sunny weather increases home sales as it brings home sellers and buyers out from winter hibernation. Families with children typically choose to buy a home in the late spring and delay moving until their children’s summer vacations to get them acclimated before the new school year begins.
With or without children, home buyers or sellers often choose to move during the warmer months, making spring the most popular time to buy a home.
If you are selling your home this spring, chances are you will have more competition from other people in your area putting their homes on the market too. Ask your Realtor how to give your home an advantage over the others and keep the following spring selling tips in mind:
• Curb appeal. In order to sell your house, particularly during the spring season, it must have curb appeal – the visual attraction from the street. Good curb appeal can be the deciding factor in whether homebuyers take a look inside your house or move to another listing. Keep your yard in the most pristine condition possible. Mow and edge your lawn frequently. Make sure your shrubbery remains clipped and neat in appearance. Plant a few annuals to add an instant burst of color to your yard. If you have pets or children, try to keep your yard clean and clear of objects so that potential buyers can walk through easily if they want. Also, make sure that your door area is clear of bicycles and toys. Don’t forget to ask your Realtor for suggestions on increasing your home’s curb appeal.
• Air conditioning. Make sure your air conditioner works properly and turn it on before your Realtor shows your home. Buyers will lose interest quickly if they walk into a stuffy house on a warm spring day.
• Patio. Buyers will pay extra attention to the patio area while house hunting during the spring season. They will be looking for an area to barbecue and entertain. Thus, if you have a patio, make sure it is inviting and attractive. Clean your patio furniture and put a few potted plants around the area to make it more appealing.
• Walls. If you are thinking about painting your walls before you put your home on the market, stick with neutral or earth tones such as light sage green or beige. Keeping the colors neutral and light will make the room seem cooler than if it were painted a bold, dark color. If you need help selecting a neutral color, don’t hesitate to ask your Realtor.
• Lighting. Keep blinds and curtains open so that plenty of light can brighten the home’s interior.
• Pool. If you have a pool or spa, make sure to keep it clean. Floating leaves and insects can have a negative effect on a potential buyer.
And, just as in any other season, make sure to de-clutter your home. Remove any personal touches, such as family photos, diplomas, trophies and souvenirs, to make the buyer think of it as their home. Also, pack away any unnecessary items, such as kitchen appliances that you don’t use every day, to give potential buyers a better idea of how functional the space can be.
If you are considering selling your home in this spring market, use these tips and be sure to consult with your local Realtor. Working with a Realtor will prepare you to compete — and succeed — in this busy spring real estate market.