Ding-Dong, your Buyer's Calling
Carol Bass
One Day Decorating 2
The goal when a house goes on the market, is sell it fast, for maximum dollars. Adding the art and science of staging to the Realtor’s marketing strategy will increase the possibilities of this happening. The goal is to present a property in its best light to help a potential buyer visualize living their life in the property. Creating that vision means careful attention to every possible area that a buyer will see, and a buyer sees everything.
Once the curb appeal is up to par, it is time to move to the front entry of a house. The front entry is part of the package of excitement and anticipation as the potential buyer starts to visualize what lies on the other side of that door. Every step toward the front entry is one closer or further away from a sale. The house is sending a message through all the visual clues. The creaky front steps say, “I am getting old.” The peeling paint on the dated door style says, “I have been neglected.” The non-working doorbell makes a buyer wonder, “What else is broken in the house?” You may look at your property through rose colored classes, but the buyer is looking through magnifying glasses, looking for legitimate reasons to offer less money on the property.
Most homeowners enter their house through the garage or side door. They may not be aware of the peeling paint, the cobwebs that have built up, or the advertising flyers hanging on the front door knob. Think, when was the last time you came thorough your front door? Yet, the front door is where the Realtor hangs the lock box. Woo the buyer and build a desire to keep walking through the property. Make them feel, “Ah-h-h, I could live here easily!”
Here are ten easy steps to a front entry that will sell!
- Update the front door with a new door or fresh coat of paint
- Replace door hardware if it is pitted from the elements or simply looking worn
- Add color with a seasonal door wreath and pots of real flowers (please no silks)
- Test the door lock and bell and ensure they work
- Clean the light fixtures and add a new light bulb
- Remove the personalized door mat and replace with a new one
- Sweep and power wash the door, steps, floor and siding surfaces
- Add porch or entry furniture that is keeping with the caliber of the house, (get rid of those PVC chairs)
- Clean overhead gutters and porch ceilings
- Remove lawn decorations
Ding-dong, your buyer is calling. What message is your front entry sending?
About the Author-Carol Bass is a Master Professional Trainer with The Society of Decorating (www.The SDP.com) and co-founder of One Day Decorating. She teaches classes across the United States to both the Professional and DIY Decorator. She teaches not only how to create beautiful spaces but also, how to turn a passion for decorating into a successful business.
For more information, call 1-888-800-7507 or visit www.onedaydecorating2.com.