In selling real estate first impressions are critical

If you’ve ever gone shopping for a home, you know that all sorts of things can have a negative impact. It can be anything from a funny smell to a cat dish, a poor choice of wall color to an over-stuffed room.
Buyers want to walk into a clean, spacious, uncluttered home, whether you are selling in Big Bear, Maui or wherever. They want to see well-maintained, attractive spaces, without disconcerting indications of the homeowner’s personalities. An example of this could be anything from family photos to bowling trophies; anything that could interfere with a buyer’s ability to picture their own tastes and personalities in the home.
Today’s real estate market is brutally tough. Every seller must present their property in as positive and attractive light as possible. I would definately keep this in mind i the current Big ear as well as Maui real estate markets.
If at all possible the owners should make themselves scarce. Buyers will tend to feel like they are intruding when the buyers are at home. They may feel uncomfortable spending the time they need to really see what the seller is offering. Buyers are simply more comfortable when the owner is not hovering about, trying to “sell” them.
First on your to-do list should be to make any needed repairs. There is no overestimating the effect of nice fresh paint. Make absolutely sure your home smells fresh and clean.
One of the most common mistakes home-sellers make is just having too much stuff. De-clutter should be your battle cry!
Buyers will want to beat you up on the price if they think they will need to paint, buy a new carpet, or replace a countertop. Some will just move on to the next house, looking for a turn-key property; clean, painted, ready to move in. I know that both the Maui as well as the Big Bear real estate markets have been so touph as of late.
Any experienced real estate agent will tell you that, generally-speaking, neutral colors are best. Avoid loud, bright, or bold colors.
Another helpful hint when trying to sell your home is to separate your emotions from the equation. You are trying to engage in a business transaction. Your home will likely have great sentiment attached to it—but it is just another house to the buyer; they don’t care that your first born took his first steps here.