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Health & Fitness

With Autumn Underway, RE/MAX Brokers Offer Simple Tips That Can Boost Sellers' Odds of Attracting Multiple Bids from Buyers

If selling their current home is on the agenda for autumn, homeowners have every reason to be upbeat about the prospects.  The six months from April through September of this year have seen the pace of recovery in the metropolitan Chicago real estate market accelerate considerably.  There were 29 percent more home sales and the median sales price was 13 percent higher than during the same period in 2012.

Owners eager to attract serious buyers at this time of year, when temperatures drop, daylight shortens and gardens fade, are well advised to take steps that will increase their odds of garnering not just a single offer, but several.

A home must be priced right to attract buyers, but it is also vital to maintain its curb appeal.  Otherwise, buyers may simply drive away without setting foot in the residence.

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That means raking up leaves and cutting back dead plants as much as possible – but don’t damage the perennials.  With few if any flowers in the yard to grab the eyes of visitors, be sure the front entrance area looks especially attractive as it is the first thing buyers encounter.

Staging a home as a key step for sellers.  When a home is staged, its owners remove clutter and rearrange artwork and furniture to best showcase a home.  Staging can make rooms look larger and homes feel airier.  Homes that are free of clutter and unnecessary furniture make a positive impact on buyers.  Such homes, if priced appropriately, also tend to attract more offers.

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Condition is important, too.  Owners should repair broken windows, replace torn carpeting and repaint interior walls that are chipped, faded or dirty.  Exterior painting can also add appeal to a property, but it needs to be done when the temperature is at least 50 degrees, advise the experts, and watch out for inclement weather.  Rain can ruin a fresh coat of paint.

Another recommendation from RE/MAX agents is that owners de-personalize their homes as much as possible when attempting to sell.  This means removing family photos, awards and other memorabilia and going easy on Halloween decorations.

A final tip is especially important at this time of year, when natural light is less abundant than in spring and summer.  Keep the home as bright as possible, letting daylight through clean windows and making sure the interior is well lit and cheery for evening showings.

 

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