Thinking of selling? Understanding what buyers want is the first step towards making your house as marketable as possible.
When it comes to purchasing a home, buyers aren't just seeking a structure; they are searching for a place where they can envision their future, create memories, and feel a deep sense of comfort and security. They also subconsciously seek positive emotions that include warmth, excitement, security, space, connection, cleanliness, love and future potential. Have you ever been a home buyer? Isn’t this what you wanted, also?
To successfully sell a house, it's crucial to understand what buyers want to see and feel when they walk through the door. Here are some key elements that I see time and time again that will either draw buyers in, or chase them away.
Cleanliness and Maintenance: First impressions matter. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 63% of buyers are more willing to walk through a home they viewed online if it's staged to look like the way they aspire to live, and well-maintained. A dirty or neglected house can deter potential buyers instantly. Ensure the property is freshly cleaned, with no dirt or visible maintenance issues.
Curb Appeal: The exterior of a home is the first thing buyers see. A well-manicured lawn, neatly trimmed shrubs, and a welcoming entryway can make a significant impact. A study by Michigan State University found that well-landscaped homes can sell for 5.5% to 12.7% more than homes with no landscaping. Buyers want to feel invited as they approach the house. Include pots with colorful flowers by the front door (in season), and clean the front porch well.
Spaciousness: Buyers often desire a feeling of spaciousness. In a survey conducted by Zillow, 47% of buyers said that a lack of storage space was one of their top concerns when looking for a home. Buyers want to be able to envision their furniture and belongings fitting comfortably in the space. Removing small items that can be distracting, as well as removing some unnecessary furniture and arranging what’s left so that buyers can move through the room easily can help achieve this.
(PICTURE FOR REMOVING FURNITURE, ITEMS….)
Natural Light: Natural light can transform the ambiance of a house. Homes with ample natural light tend to sell faster and for more money. In fact, a study by the University of California, Berkeley, found that natural light can increase the value of a home by up to 6.3%. Ensure windows are clean, curtains are open or removed if you don’t need them for privacy, and consider light, neutral wall colors, artwork and accessories to make the space feel brighter
Functional Layout: Buyers want to see a house with a practical layout that suits their needs. According to the NAR, 67% of buyers said that they are willing to pay more for a home with a kitchen island. A well-designed kitchen, ample storage space, and bedrooms that offer privacy are features that appeal to most buyers.
Current Updates: Many buyers seek modern amenities, such as updated appliances, energy-efficient systems, and smart home technology. They also expect to see current updates that let them know the house is well-maintained and invested-in. If your hardware and lighting are over 10 years old, replacing them with something more current is a simple yet powerful step towards making your home look more up to date.
Clean and Well-Appointed Bathrooms: Bathrooms are highly scrutinized. Bathroom remodels can provide an average return on investment (ROI) of 70%. Buyers want to see clean, well-maintained bathrooms with functioning fixtures. Instead of a full-blown bathroom remodel before selling, consider minor upgrades like fresh grout, updated hardware, and spa-like white towels to enhance the space.
Emotional Connection: Buyers usually buy a house based on emotions. According to a study by the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA), homes that are professionally staged sell 73% faster than non-staged homes. Staging can help create this emotional bond by making the space feel inviting when it is set up for what buyers want to see and feel in each room. Staging is key to selling faster and for the most money possible, and in an owner-occupied home, can be done using your belongings!
Storage Space: Adequate storage space is a priority for many buyers. A survey by the NAR found that 78% of buyers consider storage space important. They want to see closets and cabinets that can accommodate their belongings. Consider organizing and decluttering these areas to showcase their potential.
Outdoor Space: If the property has outdoor areas, buyers want to feel the potential for relaxation and entertainment. The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) reported that 83% of buyers want a patio or outdoor space in their home. Staging the patio or backyard with furniture and greenery can help buyers envision the possibilities.
Safety and Security: Buyers want to feel safe in their new home. Make sure all locks work, install security systems if possible, and ensure windows and doors are in good working condition.
Neighborhood and Community: It's not just about the house; buyers want to feel a connection to the neighborhood and community. Highlight nearby amenities, schools, parks, and any unique features that make the location appealing. Many buyers consider access to parks and recreational facilities when purchasing a home.
In conclusion, selling a house is not just about presenting a property; it's about creating an experience for potential buyers. These statistics highlight the significance of intentionally and purposefully addressing these key elements when preparing to sell your house.
With this focus, you can not only attract the right buyers by making them feel like they've found their future home, but you have also set yourself up to secure a higher selling price and a quicker sale.
Because we all tend to overlook things that we are closest to, it would be beneficial to have a neutral 3rd party or trained home stager look at each room through these buyer’s eyes.
Our “Marketable Home: Staging Consultation” is a thorough analysis of all this and lots more -- identifying all buyer-red-flags but paired with customized solutions -- based on your timeline and budget. When we finish, you’ll have a detailed plan for every aspect of preparing your house for sale. We can return to add accessories and do the styling for you, or fully stage your vacant house. Either way, our services give you a huge advantage in the and put you well on your way to a successful sale!