A smooth move is priceless, and with guidance from your Locations Realtor®, you can make it a reality. Below are a few of the many tips to consider when moving.
Plan ahead
The more time you and your Realtor® have to plan and prepare for your move, the more likely you are to reach your objective. Factors like which time of year you decide to list your home can affect the number of potential buyers your home attracts. For example, if potential buyers have children in school, those buyers might prefer to move in summertime or over holiday breaks, when school is out of session. This means you may want to go on the market a month or two prior to those dates.
Prep your home
You only have one chance to make a GREAT first impression. These days, that impression is most likely made based on photos, as prospective buyers and their agents typically view homes for sale online before visiting in person. It's important that your home be in its best condition before taking professional listing photographs. Hiring a professional cleaner can make an enormous difference, as can de-cluttering your home. Buyers want to imagine their items in your home, so you'll want remove personal items and clutter. Less is definitely more when it comes time to sell. Since you’ll be moving anyway, it’s best to start packing your items well in advance of selling your home.
Your Locations Realtor®, can advise you on how to present your home in its best possible light. Don’t forget about your home's curb appeal; it's the first area buyers will see as they enter your home. Bright flowers and plants can really make a difference, and keeping the walkway and driveway clean is ideal.
Keep track of paperwork
Be sure to keep track of your seller disclosures, purchase contract and all addendums. You'll want to keep all of these documents in a safe place, just in case you need them again.
Make your home sparkle
It's easiest and most cost effective to hire a professional cleaning service. How clean you leave your home is up to you, but put yourself in your buyer's shoes: How would you want to find your new home?
Go to the final walk-through
Share your knowledge of your new home with the buyer--they'll appreciate your insights!
Cancel insurance
This one seems obvious, but wait until the title transfer has occurred before transferring your insurance.
Cancel utilities
List all of the utilities you have, and cancel or transfer them one by one. Do this at least one week before your move to allow the companies time to cancel the service.
Leave your keys
Gate keys, mailbox keys, garage door openers, fan remotes, etc.,...leave all of these things in the same place for the buyer to find.
Check every nook and cranny
Check cabinets, drawers, storage areas, sheds, etc., to make sure you don't leave anything behind.
