March is officially here, which means the Ottawa spring housing market is just around the corner. The season marks a turning point in annual fluctuations of supply and demand as many homeowners opt to sell come March and April.
With that in mind, I’ve put together this article on getting your property ready for spring or summer sale. Preparation is everything when it comes to getting top dollar for your home, and based on what I’ve seen over the course of my career, strongly believe that these best practices are worth following.
Declutter and Depersonalize
While this may seem like a no-brainer, it’s surprising to see just how many homes listed on the market fail the test. People are often itching to sell and forget – or maybe simply don’t realize the importance – to give their house a deep clean. Spring cleaning should happen every year, but especially in anticipation of market listing.
Simultaneously, buyers want to be able to imagine themselves living in the home without feeling like they’re intruding on someone else’s space. A clean home is a start, but removing personal items from around the home can help them picture themselves there for the long-term.
Take the time to completely clean, depersonalize, and detach from the property. Remove any family photos, knick-knacks and other personal items that may create a mental barrier between potential buyers and their own vision for the home. Doing so will help them see the house for what it truly is – an opportunity.
Let the Sunshine In
Springtime is the perfect opportunity to brighten up your home with natural light. While Ottawa’s weather has a habit of being temperamental this time of year, there are still many days when the sun is out in full force.
Make the most of that natural light by removing heavy drapes and blinds, giving prospective buyers the chance to truly appreciate your home’s windows and the views and natural light they provide. This is especially important in the bedrooms or living areas, where natural light can make a room feel larger and more welcoming.
Address Any Foul Odours
Again, this one might seem obvious, but it’s often overlooked during the preparation process. Homes are one of the most important places we have in our lives, and often bear the brunt of its smells. From dogs and cats to cigarettes and cooking odours, buyers will pick up on anything that’s out of place – and it’ll impact their opinion.
Be sure to assess and address your property’s unique smell before listing. Even if you don’t pick up on anything, it’s worth getting a second nose that doesn’t live in the house involved to ensure that no unpleasant odours are present when buyers come by.
Incorporate Greenery
With the bright and pleasant days of spring, now’s the perfect time to dress up your property with some greenery. Plants are a great way to give your home a fresh look and make it feel more inviting. Whether you’re sticking to some potted plants on the porch or planning out an elaborate garden along the front lawn, it’s a valuable investment in terms of curb appeal.
Just be sure not to overdo it – too many plants can create an overwhelming atmosphere, so be selective in your choices.
These are just a few of the best practices to keep in mind when getting your property ready for sale this spring or summer. Taking the time to really think through the process and do it right will go a long way in ensuring your home finds a buyer that’s willing to pay top dollar.
Planning to sell this spring and want to ensure you make the most of the process? I can help. With over 20 years of experience as a REALTORⓇ and broker in the Ottawa area, and as the 2021 President of the Ontario Real Estate Association, I’m here to provide you with the professional advice and guidance you need. Contact me today!