Start preparing now for a Spring real estate sale

Average time to sell a property in the Hamilton area ranges between 45 and 55 days. If you want to sell in April, you should ideally be listed by the end of February. And if you want to list in February, you should be planning for it now.

The first step is to take a good hard look at the property and make a list of things that should be done. Separate it into smaller items that can be done with minimum investment or time or money and larger items that require more work or cash.

You should get all the little things done, because details do count in overall impression. This includes small stuff like oiling squeaky hinges, tightening loose door knobs, replacing worn out or damaged cabinet hardware, and so on. While these little details on their own may not affect a sale, together they can add up and give an impression that the property has not been well-maintained.

Next, look at the list of larger items, including things that you might like to have done if you were going to stay in the property. If you'd like to see them done, chances are that buyers coming through are going to think the same thing. Priority should be given to major maintenance on home systems and on renovations that provide the best return-on-investment (ROI).

On the maintenance end, for example, replacing an old furnace with a new and more efficient one may not get you back 100% of the investment, but it certainly will help with the sale. Cracked windows, holes in walls, and other unsightly defects should also be replaced or repaired.

As for renovations, the best ROI is a fresh coat of paint, as long as it is done well. And I would say that to maximize impact, all renovations - paint or otherwise - would best be targeted at three main areas first: main kitchen, main bathroom, and the front entrance.

If you would like a free, no-obligation consultation and unbiased opinion on preparing your property for the Spring market, please call me at 905-512-4069 or email Jeff@JeffSellsHomes.ca