Is there anyway to improve your chances, without investing a lot more? Fortunately, there is.
Even if you’re not very skilled in carpentry, plumbing, or other traditional trades, there are things you can improve the saleability of your home. All it takes is a modest effort and a few common tools.
For the Exterior of your Home:
The first thing a potential buyer will notice when viewing your home is it’s curb appeal , so remember to keep you lawn neatly cut and repair any bare spots. Trim the edges. And invest in a few dozen inexpensive flowers and plants if the season permits it. The exterior is always what is seen first and first impressions linger.
New window screens are a low priced way to make your exterior look fresh and new. To save even more, you can remake the screens with mesh and rubber kits, provided the frames are still in good shape. Just go to your local hardware store for more help.
Speaking of windows, replace any cracked or broken windows. Broken windows can lower your home’s saleablity or selling cost. Also, make sure that all of your windows are squeaky clean to give that shiny new feel.
Since a home inspection will almost always be done prior to a conclusive bargain being struck, take the opportunity to make inexpensive plumbing repairs BEFORE showing the house.
For the Interior of Your Home:
Take a look at your carpets. Replacing carpeting throughout an entire house, or even one room, can be expensive. However, getting them cleaned is far more affordable. You might want to consider renting a Rug Doctor from your local grocery store.
A fresh coat of paint is a very inexpensive way to make a bit impression. Be sure the work is done carefully, though, or it can come out looking worse than before you started.
A buyer that sees that you’ve made efforts to keep the property up will be more inclined to offer a better price. Think of the last time you bought a car. Didn’t you favor the one that was well maintained? You were probably willing to pay a little extra to get that one. They will be too.