Idaho Rebounds…key real estate points to consider

Are you thinking of making a move to the Low Maintenance lifestyle that Movado Greens has to offer? Are you contemplating whether the timing is right for having your home on the market? Here’s a few things to consider in this important decision:
 
1) While April statistics will be more revealing about the impacts of the virus, Intermountain MLS reported there were actually more listings and more sold homes in March 2020, than in March 2019. Our market continued to move forward!
 
2) We are not seeing significant price reductions. Currently, there is not much inventory on the market and buyer demand remains high. Sellers with their homes priced competitively and in good condition, can still sell their homes in less than 60 days.   
 
3) With these current conditions and low interest rates, Boiseans could bounce back faster than in other regions, primarily because there continues to be a migration to Idaho from other parts of the country. 
 
4) Homes continue to go “pending” even amid open house restrictions. There are many “virtual tour” options available, and there is a special set of guidelines in place for touring existing homes on the market, when requested.
 
So now is a great time to get busy and prepare your home to sell! Below are some suggestions and tips:

Choose a real estate agent

At Verado, our experienced team offers a full scope of real estate services including listing your current home and making your move a smooth transition.  Your real estate agent should be someone you feel comfortable working with, whom you trust to sell your house for top dollar.

Improve your curb appeal

A first impression is a lasting impression. Invest some effort by cleaning up the flower beds, pulling weeds, planting colorful flowers and repainting your front door. The appeal of the outside of your house is what can bring the Buyer’s through your door! Ask your Real Estate Agent for advice on how to improve your home’s curb appeal.

Declutter & depersonalize your space

Less is definitely more when it comes to getting your house ready to show! Clean up counters, windowsills, tables, and all other visible areas, and then tackle behind closed doors: closets, drawers, and cupboards. Virtually nothing is off-limits for curious buyers. Not only will clearing clutter help your house look more appealing to buyers, it will also help make your move easier once you’ve received an offer. Remove distractions so the buyers can visualize themselves and their family living in the propertyRemove personal items and family photos, as well as furnishings that might make the home less appealing to the general public. The goal is to create a blank canvas on which buyers can project their own visions of living there, and loving it.

Neutralize bright paint colors

Neutral colors are safe, it’s rare that someone dislikes it. The other benefit is that a light color allows buyers to envision the walls would look like with their choice of color.

Touch up any scuff marks and make small repairs

Even if you’re not doing a full-on repainting project, pay special attention to scrubbing and then touching up baseboards, walls, and doors to make the house sparkle and look cared-for. It’s a small thing, sure, but you’d be surprised by the negative effect a loose handle or missing lightbulb can have on a buyer. Fix up small problems before putting your house on the market. You will see more interest if your house is Move-in Ready!

Add some plants

When staging your house, remember that green is good. Plants create a bright and more welcoming environment. You might also want to consider a bouquet of flowers or bowl of fruit on the kitchen counter or dining table. Some plants and natural elements will impress buyers by bringing some extra color and life to your decor.

Conduct a smell test

Odors can be a deal breaker, and the problem is that you might not even notice them. Invite an unbiased third party in to try to detect any pet smells or lingering odors from your kitchen. If the smells are pervasive, prepare to do some deep cleaning as many buyers are sensitive to seller’s “masking techniques” such as candles or plug-in room deodorizers. Plus, covering up odors with a stronger scent might backfire if the buyer doesn’t like the smell of lavender or artificial citrus.

Clean, clean, clean

Once you’re done cleaning your house, clean some more!  You want your property to look spotless. When selling your home, it’s important to keep everything tidy for buyers, and you never know when a buyer is going to want to schedule a last-minute tour. Remember to take special care with the kitchen & bathroom, making sure the tile, counters, shower, and floors shine.

Consider staging

Stagers also know the real estate market, and what sells, so it’s important to take their advice and not take offense when they make big changes. Their job is to help drum up interest from potential buyers, which is always good news to you as a seller.

As your real estate agent, I would be happy to guide you through each phase of the home selling/home buying process. For a quick chat or detailed consultation, please call me at 208.371.4050. I’m at your service!

Blackrock
About the Home Builder

Blackrock Homes

Blackrock Homes is based in Meridian, Idaho, and has been a top residential builder in Boise Valley for over two decades. They have a long-standing reputation for building quality homes of excellent value and delivering superior customer service.

Posted by:

Marilyn Talbot

In her Boise real estate career of over 20 years, Marilyn has represented buyers, sellers, builders and investors. These experiences have resulted in a wide scope of understanding and ability to prioritize her clients best interests. You can contact Marilyn at 208.371.4050 or marilyn@marilyntalbot.com

Marilyn is a community specialist at Edington, and is licensed under Fathom Realty in Eagle, Idaho.