It happens. You have to move before you can get your home sold. Often it’s because of a job transfer, but whatever the reason, it’s not the optimal way to sell and move. So what can you do?
Your first order of business should happen before you move out. As you pack to go, clean. Make the place spotless. This will be easier to do when the house is empty of your belongings, but start as you pack. Also, consult with a Realtor to see if any updates are a good idea. Ideally, they can be done once you move out, and then you can list right away. These are a lot of the same things that any seller should do.
Now that you’ve moved out, deep cleaned the empty house and made any necessary updates, it’s time to get listed. Your best bet is to have someone come in and stage the home.
Empty homes are, unfortunately, harder to sell. Spending the extra money to make it look lived it, or at least give prospective buyers an idea of each room’s purpose, will pay for itself. If you can’t afford a professional service, see if family or friends can help with some furnishings and such to help out while it’s listed.
You also need to make sure the home stays spotlessly clean. Either hire a cleaning service to come through once a week, or have a friend or family member do it. Nothing says “empty house” more than dust bunnies! Make sure systems and appliances are in working order.
Same with the yard. Have a lawn service keep the yard mowed and weeded. Curb appeal is very important. Also make sure that your mail and newspapers are forwarded or stopped. Keep a few lights in the home on a timer so they go on and off regularly.
A lot of this is important for another reason as well. Empty homes are a target for break- ins and vandalism. Have friends or neighbors keep an eye on the home for you and call the police if there is anything hinky going on. That said, empty also doesn’t sell well, so making your house look lived in will help you sell.
If you would like some help getting your home sold, give the Deb Ward Team a call!
727-410-0336
