Spring is in the air. As the weather warms up, buyers have a tendency to flood the market—leading to increased competition. That’s good news for sellers. Now is the most popular time to put a home on the market, and taking advantage of that can help you secure multiple offers and (ideally) a higher price. It starts with the right property preparations.

Here are five tips for getting your home show-ready this spring…

1) Declutter thoroughly

From worn-out furniture to clothing you never wear, clutter has a way of building up—especially when it’s cold out. Spring is the perfect time to clear it all out and set the scene for staging. Work your way through each room, creating piles for things you’ll keep, donate, and toss out. Start with duplicate items and things you haven’t used in a year or more. From there, look into local charitable organizations accepting donations.

2) Do a deep clean

It goes without saying that your home will need to be pristine before it’s show-ready. Be aware that potential buyers will open cupboards, look under furniture, and even inspect out-of-the-way spots (like your ceiling fan blades and stove drip pans). While you’ll want to start cleaning on your own, bringing in professionals at some point before listing is definitely worthwhile. Even if you’re exhaustive in your efforts, nobody knows how to scour a home, top to bottom, like the experts.

3) Freshen up the paint

Few things can instantly refresh a living space like a new coat of paint. Whether it’s been a while since you’ve repainted and your walls are looking dull, or the hue that’s on them now doesn’t complement your home as it should, taking this step could boost your return. Neutrals are a safe bet—just be sure that the shade you choose works well with your decor. The return you receive could be significant!

4) Illuminate your space

After the darkness of winter, sunlight is a welcome change. It’s part of the reason so many buyers are ready to start viewing homes at this time of year. To take advantage of these positive feelings, let the brightness in. That means forgoing heavy window treatments in favour of light, sheer fabrics. Be sure to open up the curtains prior to a showing, and consider adding a floor lamp if there’s an area that isn’t well lit.

5) Focus on curb appeal

Your home’s exterior speaks volumes. It’s the first thing prospective buyers see before they step inside. To make a great first impression, invest in lawn care, replace chipped or faded siding, and consider power washing any dull-looking concrete. Small details (such as sleek exterior light fixtures and a new welcome mat) can also have a major impact on buyer perceptions!

For over 36 years, our clients have trusted us to minimize risk, offer unbiased opinions, and ensure their best interests are served. Contact us today to talk about your needs, by emailing us at info@christensengroup.ca or calling us at 416-441-2888 ext. 772.