When the family home is up for sale, of course we would all like the process to be quick and painless and to net us a maximum return. It's certainly possible, but it requires a little planning and elbow grease but the payoff in the end will make the effort more than worthwhile. You can hire people to help, call your local flooring business or painter or just tackle a few simple projects that most homeowners can do on their own.
One of the biggest changes that you can make to your home with a relatively low cost and time commitment is to paint. It gives the inside a clean crisp new look and makes the home feel fresh and welcoming. Chose warm neutral colors that won't scare away potential buyers and will allow them to imagine their belongings in the space. Replacing or painting old and scratched baseboards is another quick renovation that home owners can do themselves quite inexpensively.
Try and get rid of excess clutter. Clear out the knickknacks and that old chair sitting in the corner. The things that feel homey to you may feel overwhelming to your buyers. Go for simple, clean surfaces that will let buyers visualize the potential in the home. Less is definitely more when you're trying to sell your home.
Highlight your home's best features. If you have a beautiful view make sure your windows sparkle inside and out. There are many companies available to take care of those exterior ones that are out of reach. Ask your friends what they think your home's best feature is and then find a way to give it some special attention.
Curb appeal is important! If you're not having the exterior of your home repainted then you should consider renting a decent pressure washer and at the very least giving it a thorough cleaning. Keep the lawn mowed and store away all kid's toys and sporting equipment.
Throw a splash of color in the yard! Neutrals are preferred for decor but you can go a little crazy outside. Planting inexpensive perennials in boarders and flower beds let the colors and the foliage give your house an inviting vibrant look that buyers get to see right from the curb.
The most important thing you can do with your home when you're trying to sell is to take out your emotional attachment to it. You're not decorating or staging to your personal taste, you're trying to make it a blank canvass that new buyers will want to fill with their own personalities.