The Omaha housing market is still very active despite what is going on with the current pandemic. Interest rates remain at historic lows and homes are selling at or above asking price within a few days.
If you’re considering a move, we wanted to give you 10 things you should do before listing your home so you are better positioned when it comes time to sell.
1. Research the local housing market
The first step to getting ready to list your home is to do your research. Know what the value is of your home and what comparable properties in your neighborhood have recently sold for. Consider how similar properties compare to your home. Of course, one of the best options is to have a reputable realtor help determine the listing price of your home.
2. Find a listing agent
An experienced realtor will know your neighborhood, have connections to potential buyers, and be social media savvy. Have questions ready when interviewing listing agents to help you determine if they are the right person to sell your home.
3. Get fresh light bulbs
When showing your home to potential buyers, lights will be on throughout your home. Make sure light bulbs have a lifespace to withstand this increased usage.
4. Declutter your home
Decluttering and organizing your home is a major to-do when getting ready to list your house. Having a spacious, de-cluttered home appeals to buyers because it allows them to truly see the home and it’s potential. Free up some space by going through each room of the house, including closets and drawers and remove anything you don’t use on a daily basis. Donate what is in working condition, toss trash, and pack up what you wish to keep but don’t need at the moment.
5. Deep clean
After you declutter your house, it’s time for a deep clean. To prepare for listing photos and house showings, you want your home in sparkling condition. First impressions mean everything when it comes to selling a home. Consider hiring a professional house cleaner and carpet cleaner to ensure your home is in pristine condition.
6. Fix it
If you aren’t handy, then call someone who is. Take a look at everything from your toilets to squeaky doors and fix it before listing your home. You want to show buyers that your home has been well-maintained and will be comfortable for years to come.
7. Time to paint
Now is the perfect time to give your walls a fresh coat of paint. Have a kitchen that’s butter yellow or a living room that’s blazing orange? Paint over those bold color choices with something more neutral and appealing to the masses. Whites, light greys or light beiges will make your home feel bright and spacious. And the fresh coat of paint will cover any little imperfections that could turn off buyers.
8. Stage and depersonalize your home
Staging a home can help it sell faster. Minimize the amount of stuff in each room and make sure it is staged to help buyers understand its function. While you’re at it, remove all personal photos from your home and any other personalized items. Seeing a blank slate allows buyers to picture themselves in the home. You can leave a few nice, framed photos around the home to give it a warm, inviting feel.
9. Rent a storage unit
In the process of decluttering and staging your home, you are bound to have boxes of things you don’t need while selling your home. Go ahead and rent a storage unit to store your belongings during this time.
10. Hire a professional photographer
Since buyers search for homes online, it is crucial to have quality, professional photos of your home. If working with a realtor, they will have recommendations of who they use. Having professional photos of your clean, staged home is bound to catch buyers’ attention.
Summer may be coming to a close, but the Omaha housing market is still hot. Follow the tips above to make sure you sell your home fast and for the best value. If you need a reputable title and escrow company you can trust, give us a call.
