Basements are usually the last place that a buyer will see when viewing your home. So why not make it a lasting impression?
Here are some things to consider when 'Setting the Stage' for the basement:
1.Clean up and Clear out - get a bin, bag, shovel - whatever you need to only leave the essentials behind - less is more in this case - always...and no kitty litter in sight!!
2. Give Purpose to the space:
i. ) if the basement is unfinished and is used for storage - then make the best most organized storage space on the block - painted floors, proper shelving, bins for storage that fit into the shelving. It also shows that you are a conscientious home seller!
ii.) if the basement is divided into a bedroom and recreation space - play up the function of these 2 rooms
III.) if the space is one big rectangle: divide it into a games table section, desk area and a t.v. area using a couch table or Ikea low rise open book shelf unit to divide the spaces.
3. Apply Basic Staging Rules: lighting in a triangular positioning - make sure you have lamps/lighting in three areas of any given room; when in doubt angle your furniture/bed - this always makes the room look bigger by defining the space more efficiently; and all art work at eye level - or in a collage at eye level.
4. Warm it Up! If a buyer feels the basement is too cold - they will deem it not as user friendly - therefore attach less value to the over feel of the home...
5.Place a sticker on the furnace and hot water tank stating the age of them and when they were last serviced - buyers will really appreciate the notice.
Basements are often overlooked by home sellers - when it comes time to sell. However - on the buyers end of things - it is one of the aspects of a home that may make or break a decision. A well presented, and well kept basement completes the perfect home package for a lot of home buyers out there. This is becoming increasingly so.
AND - if you live in a new home - finishing your basement right away - well ahead of the rest of your neighbors will ensure you have a completely finished home when you go to sell. Apples to apples for newer homes -ones with finished basements sell quicker and for more money!
Jennifer Kennedy, Broker Owner of Kennedy Real Estate Edmonton. Jennifer founded Kennedy Real Estate in October 2010 after 9 award winning years at RE/MAX. Jennifer's online marketing and negotiating skills combined with a life long passion for design and renovations make her a valuable asset to both realtors and clients for getting their homes sold faster and for more money.
Posted in: Interior Design and Decorating
