Top eight tips to sell your house

Regardless of the size or price point of your home, you should seriously consider the following guidelines for producing a sale in a timely manner and receiving the highest price possible. Your home should stand out in your neighborhood and price point. Implementing the following tips I am suggesting will help you accomplish your goal.

Let’s talk maintenance. Repairing anything that is in disrepairmust be a priority. Does your home need roof repairs or replacement, appliance repairs, replacement of worn or soiled carpet? Your home basically should be move-in ready so that prospective buyers can picture themselves doing just that.

First impressions are key to catching a buyer’s attention. I would guess that everyone knows this but first thing one should do is a deep cleaning. This can begin outdoors. Add instant curb appeal with a clean, well-manicured yard. Add fresh plantings. spring through fall, with colorful blooms if possible. Make sure shrubs and trees are properly trimmed and healthy.

The next tip is one of prime importance and the hardest to implement. De-cluttering stumps many, perhaps because clutter is a moving target. In other words, the definition of clutter is subjective. Dare I delve into such a sensitive subject? From the perspective of design and the purpose of selling, understanding that you will likely be living in your home while it’s on the market, this may be difficult. With that said the daily routine you have become accustomed to, which also means having certain items at your fingertips, will need to be organized in some other fashion. Accessibility and convenience are understandably important. The TV remote, daily newspaper, Sudoku puzzle book, and a handful of favorite pens and pencils occupy the coffee table on a daily basis. These items can be placed in an attractive container such as a decorative wooden box or basket with a lid. Personal photos, sports memorabilia, certificates, and trophies should all be packed away in a clearly labeled box. The pile of daily mail that accumulates on your desk can also be stored in a decorative container or tucked away in your desk drawer for easy access. An overloaded bookshelf never presents well. Clear out cupboards with anything not essential, this is anything that isn’t used on a regular basis. Pack away and mark clearly with room and contents. You can get by with a lot less than you think!

Freshen up the house with fresh paint! Use soft off-white tones; avoid stark white as it is almost always too abrupt. Don’t genderize rooms by painting them pink or blue. The home’s entrance should be inviting and well lit. Add extra layers of light with simple attractive lamps, removing furniture if the room feels crowded. Keep accessories simple, appropriately sized and well placed. Remove items that block natural light from windows and skylights. Best to you!

Lisa Samuel ASID, IIDA, is a Santa Fe native and principal of Samuel Design Group, located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe. She is an award-winning interior designer known for creating unique interiors imbued with warmth and elegance. Lisa (info@samueldesigngroup.com) is passionate about good design that supports well-being.

Sheers on the windows allow this room to be bathed in light. Simple accessories and new lighting add to the ambiance