10 Tops Ways to Chase a Buyer Away!
1. Odors
Most buyers today will run from cigarette smoke and pet odor. Ask someone who will be honest with you if your home has “houseitosis.” Remove the smell – don’t mask it
2. Dog Greeters
Many people (including perhaps your agent) could be frightened or irritated by your animals. Remove your pets for each showing if possible. Putting them in the garage or basement keeps some buyers from looking at the entire house. Don’t expect them to come back later to see the garage or basement. 3. Bathrooms
Make sure your bathroom is mold and scum free. Shower doors clean easily with fabric softener. If you need a new shower curtain or liner, get it now. New WHITE towels are always inviting….but don’t use them. They say “I am as clean as a model home” to your buyers. 4. The Dark House
Replace dim light fixtures and remove heavy draperies. Repaint any dark rooms with colors that reflect light. Trim tree limbs that shadow or hide the house. 5. Busy Wallpaper
Wallpaper was once popular but many buyers see it as a project. They are concerned that it may not come down easily or damage a wall that was not prepped correctly. 6. Damp Basement
Buyers across the board are afraid of wet basements. Make sure the ground around your home drains away from the foundation. Make sure gutters and downspouts are kept clean and facing the right direction. Divert all water away from your foundation. Make sure any underground drains are functioning correctly. 7. Bugs!
Get rid of all insects – dead or alive! 8. Curb Appeal
Sometimes a buyer will not even look at the inside of a home with less than perfect curb appeal. Grab interest from the curb! Buyers think that an unkempt yard means a lack of overall maintenance on the home. Make sure the lawn is manicured and your home is in tip top shape. 9. Gutters as Planters
Clean your gutters regularly. 10. Sellers who stay for showings
Buyers are not comfortable looking at a home when the sellers are present. They may make a quick dash through the house and never see a thing.
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