Ask The Realtor!

How can a neighbor’s property affect the sale of my home?  I have my home listed for what I feel is a fair market price yet no offers.  My home is in good condition however I am in a twin and attached to a home that is not so great.  There are problems with the front porch, their front window is cracked and they leave a huge amount of “stuff” on the front porch.  I’m not sure what to do about it but I am beginning to wonder if it is affecting the sale of my home.

An adjoining property that is not in good repair can have a negative impact on the attached home and the surrounding homes.  Potential buyers will not want to deal with the hassles of a neighbor who does not care about their property and will feel it would be a reflection of their home and neighborhood.  They may also feel that some of the disrepair may be coming over to your home due to the neglect.

I would speak to your neighbor about this situation.  They obviously know you are trying to sell your home.  Tell them about your concerns and ask them to please do some cleaning of the front area, and the yard if necessary, and to have the repairs taken care of.  If they are unable to afford to have them completed you might want to help them out in an effort to get your home sold.  It definitely would benefit you in the effort to sell your home. 

I am getting ready to list my home and wanted some ideas on staging.  What do you suggest?

Since this is the Fall Season it is time to bring in the Rich Colors.  For curb appeal add Mums and Pumpkins to add some color and to give a Fall feeling.  Be sure to paint your front door if necessary.  Make sure your grass is not only cut but edged so it has a very clean look.  Keep porches and walkways clear with the exception of a few plants or a chair or two on the front porch.  No one likes to walk through clutter on their way into a home and it will appear to be more crisp if you take it away.

Bring Fall into your home by adding Mums around the house.  If you are not going to be far for showings and it is a cooler day light the fireplace and/or have a few candles lit in your home.  A clear bowel of green apples on a kitchen island or counter will work well.  Perhaps a plate full of candied or caramel apples.  Put a pumpkin on the counter.  Be sure all there is no clutter in the house.  Clean out the closets so they appear to have additional room.  Make sure mud rooms and entry ways are clear of shoes, coats, etc. and all counters are clear of debris.  A good rule of thumb is three objects to a surface. 

Make sure you clean your home from top to bottom including the baseboards and inside and outside of windows.  It is very important that your home feel and look clean.  Do not forget the inside of the oven and the microwave.  Have your hardwood and/or hard surface floors sparkling and make sure your carpets are clean.  Keep all window treatments opened and all lights are on when you have a showing including the outside lights.  Repair all that needs repairing no matter how small you feel it is.