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February - Five ways to make your home buyer-friendly

By Patricia Walters | January 24, 2008 / Seminole Chronicle

If you're like a lot of Central Floridians, your house is sitting on the market and you are patiently waiting for a buyer.

Buyers have lots of choices due to the high volume of homes available. You want your home to have that special something that will make it more attractive and result in a sale.

Here are five easy things you can do that will add distinction to your home - and you can enjoy them yourself until your home sells.

Your home's curb appeal is the first thing buyers see when they view your home. Nice, fresh annuals will add just the right pop of color no matter what the season. Make sure the garden is free of weeds and the front door, porch, and walk are clean.

The entryway or foyer is very important. It is the preview that tells the buyer what to expect in the rest of the home. You want your foyer to be welcoming and inviting.

Adding simple touches such as greenery, a bold-colored candle and a great mirror or picture will invite the buyer into the home and make them want to see more.

While your home is on the market, make it clutter-free. Each room should have specific furniture that shows the buyer the room's purpose and size.

Remove your personal items such as collectables, stacks of books or that special chair that grandma gave you. These items take up space, and can potentially shift your buyer's attention from the home to your personal items.

Kitchens and bathrooms need to sparkle. These rooms can be the major selling point for your home. Clean off the counter tops and put away small appliances. Be sure the mirrors, counter tops, floors and faucets shine.

Last but not least, take a look around your entire home. Do what I call an owners walk-through.

Put yourself in the place of the buyer and ask yourself these questions: Does the home look appealing? Is it clean? Are the colors warm and welcoming? Do the rooms flow and are they open? Does the house smell nice? Would you buy it again?

If you can answer yes to these questions, then you're already enjoying the simple changes you have made, and you can be sure your home will show the best it can until it is sold.