Are you entering the final stages of your home selling process? Congratulations! The finish line is almost in sight, but there’s still a few more steps to tackle—one of them being your home’s open house. While by this point you have likely already worked to stage your home for potential buyers, there are a few last-minute measures you can take to ensure a successful first showing. We’re covering ten of our favorites below.
Shower and clean up the night before
When possible, it’s best to avoid last minute tasks or messes that need to be taken care of before potential buyers arrive. This is why it’s often a good idea to shower and clean up hard-to-clean spots like your bathroom the night before your open house. This way, you can avoid that last minute rush and focus on creating a comfortable, inviting environment for potential buyers without worry.
Warm up your home with freshly baked goods
It’s a classic tip, but it still works—warm up your home (and invite in delicious smells) by preparing freshly baked goods before guests are expected to arrive. You don’t need to do anything fancy… simply prepare a premade mix of your favorite cookie brand, for example, and wait as the pleasant aroma fills your home. In many cases, this is a subtler and more agreeable way to bring scent into your home as opposed to heavily-scented candles.
Walk through before the “walkthrough”
In the final stretch of time before your open house, take a quick walk through your home to check for spots you might have missed beforehand. This will eliminate the chance of an unwelcome surprise—whether it be a messy floor or undesirable smell—on the actual tour.
Open the drapes
Don’t be afraid to let the light in! Keep your sweeping drapes wide open to brighten up your home and give potential buyers a clear idea of what they’re looking at every time they step into a room.
Clear away lingering clutter
Whether it’s a child’s toy, your shoes by the front door, or an errant dish in the sink, take care of lingering clutter the day of your open house.
Check (and double check) children’s rooms
While you may be particularly strict about keeping your master bedroom neat and orderly, your kids may be a little less diligent. Double check their rooms to ensure that beds are made and toys organized in a neat and tidy way.
Sweep away outdoor debris
Here in Florida, overhanging trees are constantly dropping leaves, seeds and twigs on your sidewalk and front porch. Don’t worry, though—even if your home’s exterior collected a bit of debris overnight, a quick sweeping is all you need to restore your outdoor space come morning. Potential buyers will be greeted by a home that’s neat and visually appealing, even from the outside.
Have refreshments on hand
You don’t need to plan a four-course meal for your guests, but be sure to have a few basic refreshments on hand. Water, coffee, tea and fruit or tea cakes are all great and easy last-minute options.
Put out fresh linens
If you—like many homeowners—have a set of “good linens” for company, now is the time to bring them out! Ensure that your guests have access to clean and soft towels wherever they are in your home. It’s a small touch, but it really can make a big impression in potential buyers’ minds.
Take care of Fido
Finally, we can’t forget about Fido in the process! You may want to make special arrangements for your furry friend on the day of your showing—perhaps ask a friend or family member to watch over them while you show potential buyers around your home.
We hope that today’s blog helps you achieve a seamless and successful open house! Please give us a call if you need additional help in achieving those perfect finishing touches.
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