Preparing To Sell Your Home

Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, relocating, or simply seeking a change of scenery, there comes a time in most everyone's life to pack up and move on to a new home.

Rather than selling the home as is, there are many things you can do to actually add value to the home, enhance curb appeal and help the home sell faster. Not to mention, many of these things will make you more money in the end, despite any upfront costs they may bring. We've compiled a list of some of the simplest, most effective tips and tricks to try when it comes time to sell your home.

• Fully cleaning the home is more than just a way to make the house more appealing, but a courtesy the buyer expects. You should start by shampooing the carpets, dusting every corner and crevice, and making sure all appliances are shining and sparkling.
• The expense of painting the walls is negligible toward the price of a house. Not only does a fresh paint job add appeal, it also provides a fresh new feeling to the home. Don't forget to paint the ceilings, too! If the home doesn't get much natural light, try a lighter paint shade to lighten up the space and make it more inviting. 
• Take care of repairs. Unless you're selling the house as a fixer-upper, the buyer expects everything to be in working order. If you plan to sell at full value, you need to make sure every faucet has the proper amount of water pressure, every drain has consistent water flow, and every electrical outlet and switch works. The garbage disposal must be effective, and ceiling fans have to be quiet while providing a breeze.
  
  
• Remember that as much as you enjoy your personal items, they are just that - personal items. They make the house more comfortable for you and your family, but they probably don't mean anything to anybody else. When potential buyers come by to view your home, they are interested in buying the house and turning it into their own home, not reminiscing on the previous family's memories there. Gallery walls of photos are fun, but can be distracting and take away from other great aspects of your home that potential buyers should be focusing on. 
• Speaking of personal items, the same rule applies to most furniture. Since everyone has different tastes when it comes to decor, its best to remove as much furniture as possible in order for the potential buyer to truly envision themselves living there. Another great option is to have a professional stage the home for you. 

Ultimately, you can rest assured that your home is going to sell if priced right. Work with your financial consultants and credit union when selling your home, as they are experienced and can help advise you as to what works when trying to make a sale.