Deb Espinoza's Real Estate BLOG

For Sellers who want to get a good offer quickly on their home there are 5 things that will stand out to buyers that you will want to address BEFORE you list your home:

1. Garage door- Unfortunately builders have not figured out that this isn't the most attractive part of a home and they continue to put the garage in the center stage spot of a home. For this reason the garage door can make or break your curb appeal. If its an old wood one, or a twisted smashed in metal one, replace it. If it's just dirty then you may want to replace the top panel with the window panels and put a coat of paint on it. There are some new "faux' painters out there that can make your garage door look amazing for a few hundred bucks. Also clean the grease stains of the driveway and if there is severe cracking you may want to resurface or replace the driveway as well.
2. Windows- Most buyers want a well insulated home and this includes new vinyl windows. For less than $300 each you can put retrofit vinyl windows in, they also look much better from the exterior than the old aluminum frame windows.
3. Flooring- Carpets should be clean and stretched properly, without any lumping. Tiles and grout can be professionally cleaned by your local carpet guy with a special machine that makes the floor look brand new. After it's cleaned put a coat of sealer on to keep the grout in top condition. Buyers DO NOT want a flooring allowance, and your idea of an allowance won't be theirs. Put the new carpet in before you list your home. It will also be a benefit to replace baseboards with a new, wider style. The little details can make a difference.
4. Exterior paint- The exterior of your home should be clean and fresh. If painting or a new stucco 'fog coat' isn't affordable then get a good power wash and at least freshen up the trim with a fresh coat of paint. A new coat of paint on your front door along with new door handles and locks and porch light shows as a welcome site when prospective buyers walk up.
5. Bathrooms and kitchen- These are very important rooms to buyers. If you can't afford a full rehab to bring them up to date then give them a good, professional cleaning and replace fixtures. You may also want to replace lighting if your bathrooms have the 'hollywood' style strip of round ball lights above or around your mirrors or if your fixtures are the old gold brassy look.

If you are looking to list your San Diego home, call Deb at Stage Presence Homes to come out and give you some ideas on how to make your house stand out and sell quickly for the highest price. You only get one chance to make a first impression! Stage Presence Homes Real Estate