What to fix up when selling your home

In the month of May there were 2,756 homes in Spokane with “For Sale” signs in the front yard. That is a lot of homes to look at. If one of these homes is yours, there are ways to put its “best rooms forward” by fixing it up for resale.

You can make your home on the market a stand out with just a few quick fixes that will push a buyer’s button without a lot of expense. The houses that sell first will likely be in very fine condition with considerable appeal.

“Go room by room and take a good look at the condition of your home for sale. Start with the kitchen. Most kitchens have standard dishwashers and disposal systems. The size of the pantry should complement the size of the kitchen.

“And, there should be an adequate eating area, as the kitchen is the place where the family usually gathers.

“Check the bedrooms. Do they have a private full bath that serves the master bedroom? Are there enough closets? Is there a walk-in closet? Different styles and layout may appeal to different buyers, for example a private master bath is more important in a home with multiple bedrooms because this home is targeted for large families.

“A fireplace not only looks warm and cozy but is a practical and appealing item to have, especially in the Northwest winters.

“A dramatic entrance way — something unique — always catches attention and is remembered by a prospective buyer who may have looked at a lot of homes in a short time. This will generally be perceived as an expensive home.

“A fresh coat of paint on the interior and outside could be a buyer’s delight. The buyer will always have changes they will make to make a home truly their own but they are almost always relieved to say “at least we don’t have to paint for awhile.”

“Clean sells. The first homes that sell in this market, will be the ones that are in good condition and are ready to move in.

“Location counts and is especially important if there are children in school.

“The best way to get moving on finding your new home is to find a REALTOR® . They will have all the information you will be seeking, be able to help you through the search for the home to the closing at purchase.

A good REALTOR® is as close as your telephone.