If you’re planning to sell your home, you’re more than likely concerned about how long it will take. In August, homes were on the market for an average of 46 days before they sold, according to Realtor.com data. That’s a time period that’s five days longer than a year ago but an average of 13 fewer days than what was common before the COVID-19 pandemic.
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While the possibility of having your home under contract within roughly a month-and-a-half may seem encouraging, it’s important to note that not all homes sell so quickly. Unfortunately, some may linger on the market due to easily avoidable mistakes made by sellers.
To help, here are five things that make your home hard to sell, according to a real estate agent.
It Has a Distinct Smell
Erin Hybart, a licensed real estate agent in Louisiana with Clients First Realty, said that the majority of homeowners get used to the smell of their home. “Their home may smell either really good or not so good,” she said. “Either way, it could overwhelm the buyer’s senses.”
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What To Do
Hybart recommended using an ozone machine for smoke or pet smells and cleaning all fabric surfaces. She also recommended avoiding an overload of plug-ins or air fresheners, because they can irritate buyers who are sensitive to smells — plus, she said that it also could make them wonder what you’re trying to cover up.
It’s Too Cluttered and Disorganized
“Less is more when selling a home, and organization calms the mind,” said Hybart. “The number of items in your home and their disorganization will collectively be new stimuli to the buyer. The buyer must experience and tour your house and take in all the stimuli they are experiencing. This can overwhelm the buyer without them even realizing it.”
What To Do
Hybart recommended removing as many items as possible and organizing as much as you can. She said she always encourages sellers to have a basket to throw things in from countertops, tables or even children’s toys.
“This basket can be shoved into a cabinet or closet for the showings,” she said.
It’s Dirty
“Buyers can more easily spot dust and dirt, because they are taking in all the visual stimuli of the space,” said Hybart. “They will see the spider webs on chandeliers, grease on the stove, dust on window frames and dirt in grout. It is very easy to become desensitized as the homeowner.”
What To Do
Hybart said to clean, clean and clean some more. “I have never had a buyer complain that a house is too clean,” she said. “The extra time and attention to cleaning every inch of your home will be worth it.”