Simple
Tasks Can Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal
Though the weak economy, the war, and declining property prices in
some locales have slowed the start of the spring homebuying season,
owners interested in selling should do so while interest rates are
still low. Buyers are looking for reasonably priced units in good
locations and in near-perfect condition.
Sellers
can ready their homes for the market by cleaning, painting and landscaping
the exterior to boost curb appeal. According to the National Association
of Realtors, nearly 50 percent of buyers make their decisions before
stepping through the door. Moreover, sellers could add up to 10
percent to the sale price by simply grooming the exterior. Cosmetic
improvements are key, and agents urge sellers to leave high-cost
tasks to the buyer.
The interior,
meanwhile, should be spotless and clutter-free. Experts recommend
removing magnets and notes from the refrigerator, thoroughly cleaning
kitchen counters and appliances, minimizing furnishings, cleaning
bookshelves and fireplaces, eliminating pet odors, and making sure
there are no traces of mold or mildew in the bathrooms.
"Now's
the Time for Sellers to Put Homes on the Market, Experts Say,"
Philadelphia Inquirer (05/02/03); Heavens, Alan J.
Abstracts
Copyright © 2003; Information Inc., Bethesda, Md.
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