If it’s time to list your home for sale in San Diego, you should know there are many things you can do to get the best price without waiting months on end for the “perfect buyer.” First, you’ll want to partner with a realtor that knows the local market in your area. After that, the next most important thing you can do is to clean, repair things if needed and stage your home so that it looks it’s sparkling best.
But I have kids and pets! That’s impossible!
It’s true that having kids and/or pets does mean lots of extra work whether your home is on the market or not. However, your entire family will benefit by putting a routine into place that will keep your home clean now.
If it’s not realistic for your family to be able to keep your home in a constant state of clean, you could be the perfect candidate for a housekeeper. While it’s one thing to have someone come in and deep clean your home, a housekeeper can help you manage the clean and keep it that way. Plus, a lot of housekeepers provide additional help around the house, like changing bed linens, light yard work, and even minor food prep. If you can schedule your housekeeper for early in the day, even better.
Another professional service to consider is having the windows cleaned. Whether you realize it or not, house windows play a crucial role in its overall feel and appeal. Keep in mind that buyers are interested in turnkey properties that are move-in ready. Dirty windows, according to Philly.com, can make a home look uncared for. It’s not enough to simply wipe them down: a professional service can get into the nooks and crannies, especially on high windows that can’t easily be reached. They will be able to eliminate cobwebs, dirt, and grime on both the interior and exterior of the glass. A window service might even be able to offer tips on how to prevent fingerprints, too!
Containment is the key
Once everything is deep cleaned, you’ll need to take some time to stage your home so that it looks open and inviting. This will necessitate getting rid of needless furniture and personal belongings. Unfortunately, kids might see this as a threat, and they will likely beg and plead to keep all of their stuff, which they will swear they love more than anything else and can’t possibly part with. If you want to avoid making the move a negative experience, you’re going to have to compromise, which is much easier if you learn how to contain the clutter – and messes – in the first place.
Start by evaluating your storage space. Look at your local hardware store for sturdy storage containers that will fit under the bed. Give your children a few each and let them know that their stuffed animals have their own special “secret hideaway,” and that they must be there at the end of each day. Avoid the urge to simply shove things in the closet. Instead, clear out half of your clothing and put items in storage containers under your own bed. Other ways to contain kid-created chaos is to eat outside as much as possible, forgo messy arts and crafts, and designate the main areas of your home as no-toy zones.
Regulate your routine
No matter how many times a housekeeper visits your home, you still have to live there, and that means that messes are going to happen. Home Storage Solutions asserts that creating a schedule is the most effective way to keep things neat and tidy. Make sure to give everyone a specific responsibility. Older children might, for instance, be in charge of folding blankets in the living room or sweeping the stairs at the end of each day.
If everything goes well, there is a good chance your home will only be on the market for about 30 days. Make this month count by keeping it as clean as possible.
If you are thinking of selling your house in North Park, South Park, University Heights, Normal Heights, and surrounding metro neighborhoods, contact the McT Real Estate Group right away. Learn about our Hassle-Free Listing Agreement.
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