So you’re putting your home for sale and you want to do everything you can to ensure you’re get the most for it. But you've already moved out and the place is empty. How do you sell an empty home? Read on for advice on selling a home you’re not currently living in.
Why an empty home isn't as appealing to buyers as a home full of stuff
Of course this isn’t always the case, and the opposite can be true. If a home is jam packed with stuff, it can be off-putting for potential buyers. But in most cases, having stuff in your house when you’re trying to sell it will work to your advantage.
Some smart home buyers can see past the fact that a house is empty, but the reality is, people are more interested in a home they can visualize themselves living in. Looking lived in is often the most important factor in helping potential buyers see themselves in your home and get that cozy feel that just may prompt them to make an offer.
Considering renting furniture or having your home professionally staged
Home staging is when professionals (who have really good taste) move furniture into your house for the sole purpose of making it look lived in and elegant in the eyes of potential buyers. Yes, you have to pay for this service and it can be quite pricey, but the idea is that it will allow you to sell your house for a higher price, so the cost of hiring a professional stager will be offset.
The smell of freshly baked cookies can go a long way
Let’s face it: trying to sell an empty home is not ideal. But if you have to, for whatever reason, you can always try the age-old trick of baking cookies and brewing coffee right before your open house (that is if you have an oven and coffee machine in the house). The idea is that when potential buyers come to the house for a walk-through, they will associate these nice smells with the house, and have a more positive feeling as they experience the house for the first time. And because many of us act based on our emotions, these pleasing smells will hopefully result in higher bids.
