What is the number one fear of most homebuyers? That the home they have fallen in love with is a “lemon,” and that there will be future issues that will cost the buyer a fortune.
Sure, a professional home inspection can alleviate many of these nagging doubts, but there are other things a seller can do to induce confidence in homebuyers. Things that your competition is most likely not offering.
While staging and curb appeal play significant roles, there are additional ways to enhance your home’s appeal to potential buyers:
1. Check your warranties
Have you had any work done to the home? Whether it was replacing a water heater or HVAC system to installing irrigation in the backyard, you hopefully have a warranty or two for the work performed.
Read over the terms of the warranties, looking carefully for whether or not any of them are transferable. “When allowed, warranty transfers are subject to the manufacturer’s terms and conditions so be sure to review the warranty for this important information,” cautions Annie Crawford at GAF.com.
Transparency and Documentation: Provide Comprehensive Information
Offering detailed documentation about your property, including maintenance records, warranties, and energy efficiency ratings, instills confidence in buyers.
Transparently sharing information can reassure them about the property’s condition and maintenance.
Transferable warranties, especially on pricey items, such as HVAC systems and swimming pools, are a magnet to make this more attractive to buyers and acts as a confidence booster for homebuyers, and an excellent marketing tool.
2. Gather renovation records and receipts
Not only do homebuyers love improvements to a home, appraisers do too. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to have on hand, for both parties, receipts and records of any renovations performed on the home.
Offer to make copies so that the buyer knows which contractor to call if service or repairs are ever required.
3. How old is that …?
Savvy homebuyers will ask their real estate agent to find out the age of the pricier systems in a home. These include the HVAC system, roof, electrical system and water heater, among others.
If you’ve had routine service performed on any system in the home (especially the HVAC system), dig out the records to prove this. It’s valuable information for both your bottom line in the home sale and for the buyer’s confidence in the home.
Highlight Neighborhood Benefits: Emphasize Community Advantages
Location! Location! Location! – Highlight the perks of living in your neighborhood. Showcase nearby amenities, such as schools, parks, shopping centers, and public transportation options. Emphasizing these benefits can attract buyers seeking a well-connected community.
Storage Solutions: Closets & Garages
Closet remodels have jumped 53% compared to last year, as homeowners need more storage and built-in shelving can be a significant selling point.
They’re also looking to the garage for more storage options. Nearly a third of garage renovations have been driven by a desire to add storage space, the report finds.
Some designers speculate that the demand for more storage is due to an uptick in multi-generational living, with more young adults moving back in with their parents or seniors moving in with their adult children.
Flexible Space Utilization: Showcase Versatility
Highlight the flexibility of certain spaces. For example, showcase a versatile room that could function as a home office, gym, or guest bedroom. Demonstrating adaptable spaces appeals to buyers seeking versatility.
Remember, first impressions are everything when it comes to selling your property, so make sure your property looks its best from the moment potential buyers walk through the door.
Here’s the Windup
Take these three steps to make your home more attractive to buyers and watch the offers roll in.
You can absolutely make your house very attractive to buyers simply by:
- providing comprehensive documentation
- emphasizing neighborhood advantages
- showcasing energy efficiency
- ample storage
- meticulous maintenance
- technological features
- versatile spaces
The way you present your property can significantly impact a buyer’s perception and interest in your property.
