So far, in 2016, Orlando real estate trends have steadily continued on a trajectory that favors the sellers. The overall median price for a home in Orlando rose to $185,000 last month  – more than a 12% increase from February 2015. This rise in home prices in conjunction with an increasingly low inventory of homes available, means Orlando is currently a major sellers market. Low interest rates and a high demand for quality homes means that houses are flying off the market. This may pose a challenge for potential home-buyers, but if you’re looking to sell your Orlando-area home, this is good news for you. Take advantage of the current market trends and consider these easy steps to make your home even more appealing to buyers.

1. One Chance to Make a Great First Impression

As a child, you may have been told not to judge a book by its cover. However, when a prospective buyer arrives at your home, chances are they will judge the house immediately based on the view from the outside – all before they even walk through the door. That’s why it is crucial that the yard and exterior of your house is warm and welcoming when buyers come knocking. You’re likely to get a great return on any money you put into improving your house’s curb appeal, so consider adding a fresh coat of paint, planting some brightly colored flowers, and keeping the grass and shrubs neatly trimmed.

2. Organization is Key

When buyers are browsing for houses on the market, they are looking for a home that they can envision themselves in. Help them see the big picture by eliminating clutter and giving heir imagination room to work it’s magic. You can accomplish this through a few simple steps. Make sure to remove the bulk of the personal items in your home. Consider moving things like family photos, memorabilia collections and personal knick-knacks to storage. This will make it easier for buyers to imagine their own photos and belongings in the house. Cut down on clutter throughout your house, but especially in areas like closets (this will give the impression that there is plenty of storage for future homeowners). You want to provide visitors with a blank canvas that allows them the opportunity to imagine all the possibilities.

3. Tiny upgrades, Big Payoffs

There are a number of relatively inexpensive and quick fixes you can do to your home to increase it’s potential. These minor upgrades won’t break the bank, but they may just be the cherry on top for a prospective buyer. In fact, you’re likely to get a 100 percent return on these tiny investments, all while selling your home in less time. Clean or replace things such as outlet covers and switch plates. Even upgrading ceiling fans and light fixtures can be relatively simple and inexpensive. Cabinet hardware in bathrooms and kitchens are also a quick fix that can make a big impression. Even the price of painting your home’s interior pales in comparison to the value it can add when selling a home.

4. Kitchen, Kitchen, Kitchen

You’ve probably heard that the most important factor in real estate is location, location, location. This is paramount for many buyers, but when it comes to purchasing a home, there’s another very important feature that buyers are looking at – the kitchen. It can absolutely make or break a home. So, when you’re getting ready to sell your house, take some time to make sure the kitchen is appealing. Add a fresh coat of paint and some new hardware to dated cabinets. Consider adding at least one updated, stainless steel appliance to provide a high-end look and feel. Last but not least, make sure the panty and cabinets are neatly organized and de-cluttered.

5. A Deep Clean

Prospective buyers love to scrutinize the cleanliness of the homes they visit. So, get ahead of the game by giving your home a deep clean before putting it on the market. You might find it necessary to hire a professional cleaning service to come in and do the dirty work for you. Pay particularly close attention to the kitchen and bathrooms. Make sure blinds and window sills are dusted, vacuum under furniture, wipe down surfaces, and mop any hardwood or tile floors. Go the extra mile and display a fresh bouquet of flowers in areas like the dining room, foyer, or kitchen. A deep clean goes a long way.

The current Real Estate climate in Orlando means it’s a good time to sell. Implement these quick tips and you’ll be well on your way to finding a buyer for your Orlando-area home.

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