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Factors beyond your control can influence the marketability of your home.
1. Location. You’ve heard it before: location, location, location. How desirable is the neighborhood?
Do buyers ask for that neighborhood because they want to live there, or do they buy because that is
what they can afford? Is it a neighborhood with a top rated school system? That is a requirement
for many buyers. Close to transportation, like a bus stop or a major highway, but not so close that it
is noisy?
Also, consider your home’s proximity to stores, parks and other amenities.
Also be aware of power lines, cell phone towers, nearby highways or airports and other things that
buyers might consider problematic or eye sores.
2. Unusual renovations or poor workmanship can devalue a home. A home gym or greenhouse may be
what you want and you’ve spent a lot of money putting it in, but it may not add value to potential
buyers.
Make sure renovations are complete and painted in neutral tones. Dark interior colors make a home
seem smaller than it is.
3. Poor lighting. Again, most buyers respond to bright spaces. It gives them the feeling of
spaciousness (and a larger home). It is very important to let natural light in and open up curtains and
blinds, replace burned out light bulbs and turn all lights on if showing the home to a perspective
buyer. As an example, it may even be a good idea to install an additional light fixture in a long, dark
hallway.
4. Take a good look at your home’s curb appeal. Apply a fresh coat of paint if needed and make sure
the lawn is moved and weeded. Put away the bikes and toys in front of your home.
5. Clutter inside or outside of your home. This is where less is more. A home will look more spacious
and appealing with less furniture and opened up path ways. It may be a good idea to hire a
professional to help stage your home and even rent storage space and take the extra furniture and
stuff away.
6. Stains and odors from pets can be an instant turn off for potential buyers even if they love animals.
Also, even strong air freshener (like the kind that is plugged into a receptacle) can be too
overpowering.
7. Finally consider the condition of your neighborhood.
If it’s become run down or been hard hit with foreclosures, adjust your price accordingly to attract
buyers who otherwise might be scared off.
