How to Get the Buyer’s Perspective on your Property

When you walk through the front door of your home, you have a very different experience than a buyer would. You see the familiar. You see the memories. And, you see your life. In fact, you might even wonder why anyone would hesitate to fall instantly in love with your home.

Buyers, however, don’t have that same perspective.

When they walk through your front door, they see a place they’ve never been before. To them, it’s a stranger’s home. They’re looking at your property with a critical eye.

They’re asking questions like, “Is the living room large enough? Do we like the feel of the place? Is it move-in ready or do repairs and improvements need to be done? Does it feel spacious or cramped? Neat or cluttered?”

So, when preparing your property for sale, it’s important to analyze it from a buyer’s point-of-view. A good exercise is to pretend you’re a buyer and walk through your home, starting at the entranceway. Ask yourself “buyer questions” as you visit each room.

For example, when you see the kitchen, from a buyer’s perspective, what do you like about it? What do you not like? Do the same with the other rooms and spaces in your home. Imagine, as the buyer, noticing clutter, needed repairs, poorly lit areas, and rooms that feel small and confining.

Also, of course, notice those features that would likely impress a buyer, such as a modern ensuite bathroom or new and stylish kitchen appliances.

Once you’ve done that exercise, you’ll have a clearer idea of what you need to do to make your home look its best to buyers.

Remember, an interested buyer is more likely to make a good offer on a property that “shows” well.

Debbie Tsintaris is a LOCAL REALTOR® in the Waterloo Region offering expert real estate services in Waterloo and surrounding areas in Southwestern Ontario. 

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