No Excuses!

Schoolteachers hear it all the time: "The dog ate my homework. "Employers hear it too: "There was an accident on the way to work  which made me late." Excuses, excuses, excuses!

In real estate we hear excuses too - but, when selling a home, excuses can be expensive. Buyers don't want to hear: "we've been meaning to get that window replaced" or "I know the carpet looks soiled, but we'll have it cleaned before you move in". Excuses are often met with low-price offers. A rule of thumb often used by buyers is to offer $2 less than the asking price for every $1 in needed repairs.

How can property owners attract full-price offers? A "no-excuses" home is usually the answer. Wise sellers will put their home in model-home condition BEFORE the first showing.

The process begins with major repair items such as a leaking roof or worn-out carpeting. Next, smaller maintenance items are corrected. Tubs and showers are freshly caulked, broken switch plates replaced,  and doorbells repaired. Cosmetic improvements complete the home's makeover. Closets are organized. Beds are made and dishes washed and put away. Pets are kept outdoors. The yard is neatly trimmed. In short, no  excuses are necessary! The home speaks for itself - it's sparkling clean and in  excellent condition. What buyer wouldn't respond to such a well-kept attractive home?