Tips on Getting Your Home Ready

Get It Clean

Take the time to wash walls, windows and steam clean carpets.  Pay particular attention to the kitchen and bathrooms — they are often the rooms that sell your home.

Clear Out the Clutter

Have a yard sale and donate to your local thrift stores.  You are going to be moving and anything given away or sold will not have to be packed.  Keep closets clean and organized.  Store extra furniture in a storage locker.  If you have too much stuff crammed into your home, it may appear to potential buyers that the home is small and cramped.  You want to create an illusion of space.

Freshen Up

Adding a fresh coat of paint is a sure way to brighten up your home.  Keep your colours neutral.

A Welcoming Entry Way

Your entrance way should give a warm welcome to potential buyers.  Keep it clear of clutter.  The smell of fresh baking is a welcome treat and fresh flowers will brighten up any room.  You want your buyer to want to feel at home. 

Curb Appeal

While we don’t have to live up to city standards here on Salt Spring Island, curb appeal is still important. We not expected to have golf course like turf for our front lawn; however, you do need to keep lawns mowed, gardens weeded and children's outdoor toys stored neatly away. Any accumulated garbage should be hauled away — otherwise it will probably become subject to an offer.  You will need to deal with it sooner or later.  Do it now and allow your property to look its best.

Try Not to be Home

Home buyers will feel like intruders if you are home when they come to view.  They will not be able to openly discuss issues of your home with their partner and or agent.

Pets

If you are unable to take your pets with you when your house is being shown, be sure to have them outside and contained.  This can be a stressful situation for your dog and potential buyers.  Also, be sure to put such things as litter boxes out of sight and smell.

Ambiance

In the winter have the fireplace lit and in the summer have windows open to let in the fresh air.  Always have curtains open and lights on.

Availability

It is important that your home be available for showing.  Salt Spring Island attracts a world market.  Often buyers are only here for a short period while they shop for a home.  If your home is not available for showing, you may miss out on a possible sale.