This weekend I was plagued with an order to stay off the computers, stay off the X-Box, and stay away from anything needing my right hand/wrist/forearm that did encompass biological needs. This meant the only thing I could do this weekend was grill with my left hand, drink (a lot), and watch the boob-tube.
I noticed this shows called Sell Your Home on A&E and hosted by Tanya Memme. Initially, I thought to myself, “why isn’t this on HGTV or DIY channel?” Then I thought the show’s premise was somewhat original and probably is a good idea os placing cameras out of the way to get early homebuyer feedback in order to note what every things is bad in a home up for sale.
While the shows opening shows them placing camcorders in places like behind a plant, you know they are more likely going with much smaller cameras along the lines of what you could get at a Fry’s Electronics or MicroCenter for home security via a standard network.
What I am curious to know is what are some of the things you have done to prep a home to sell? I did learn some things and would definitely employ the camera-method, but I also wonder if it might not just be a good situation to move everything out and stock the for-sale home with minimal rental furniture?
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Hello, I have recently sold my home. The home is 11 years old, I raised my children in the house, and it needed a facelift. Two years ago, I started renovations to replace that which was worn out, and try to "jazz" up the place. Here is a brief summary of what I did: new oak hardwood floors and stairs throughout, upgraded trim (wainscotting, boston headers, etc.), painted throughout in complementary warm colours of the Group of Seven, new window blinds, new ceramic in bathrooms, kitchen, hallway, laundry. Completed extensive landscaping, new lawn, new mulched beds, beachstone, 40 plus shrubs. I have purchased my dream home on a beautful lake in Fall River, N.S. The renovations were effective. I listed my home 2 years ago and it did not sell. The home I purchased was also listed two years ago and did not sell. The cost difference then: $ 201, 000. The cost difference today : $ 125,000. I figure my renovations worked. Best lesson learned: I sold the house privately. I really dont think a realtor on a 20 minute walkthrough can do the house justice. My wife and I sold it after the listing expired.
Hi Nuke
You don't have to go so far as to take out all of your own furniture and replace with rental furniture. But it is a good idea to simplify and minimize your own stuff. Get rid of all the clutter and your place will look bigger and cleaner. If you don't need or want any of your furniture in your new place, get rid of it now. However, you don't want the place to look too bare either.
We used to watch "Sell This House" every week while our house was up for sale. They give a lot of good ideas that are simple to do and inexpensive! Stay neutral with paint colours but make it look attractive and fresh. Your realtor should be able to give you some good critical advice and if not, there are home "stagers" you can hire to do that for you.
Good Luck!