The real estate market in Hawai'i has always been red hot due to the allure of an island lifestyle, a rich culture, and breathtaking beauty in every direction. Recently, it has reached molten temperatures. Perhaps this prompted you to give some thought to putting your home on the market. You may not know where to begin this journey if you're a first-time seller. Not to worry, we're here to help! Take a look at these tips for prepping your property.

 

Picking An Agent

The first step is going to be selecting an agent to represent you. Even this first leap can seem a bit overwhelming because there is an abundance of brokers to choose from. Speaking with your family or friends is a great way to elicit a few names, but going online and doing a little bit of research can be effective. Once you have compiled a list of essential questions and have a few potential candidates in mind, reach out and interview each individual. Ask about their sales for the last year and what sets them apart from other agents. Request references and speak with past clients to learn more about the agent's business acumen and verify successes. Ultimately, you want to find someone you feel confident will listen to your needs and deliver. 

If you’re a first-time seller, you may not know where to begin this journey. Hawaii Realty International is here to help.

 

Home Inspection Before Listing

When purchasing a home, buyers generally procure a home inspection as part of the process. However, something that may surprise you is that sellers can also have this done. Getting a pre-listing inspection goes a long way in showing buyers that you are open and honest about the condition of the home. Further, identifying any issues before the listing can be valuable when negotiating offers and could ensure minor problems don't turn into major ones.

 

10 Tips for Selling in Hawaii Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

Make Minor Repairs

While we're on the subject of inspections when a potential buyer receives their report, there may be multiple pages of small things that need to be addressed, such as loose outlet covers, jiggling toilets, etc. As long as you feel confident, take the time to fix the minor things. It is a simple way to make buyers feel like you are working with them and compromising. 

 

Hawaii First-Time Seller Tips Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

Splash New Paint On The Walls

Courageous color themes inside homes are becoming commonplace nowadays. Bright hues can be exciting and add a little flair to your walls. If you are preparing your house for market, splashing neutral tones throughout is a good idea, as not everyone enjoys daring color palettes.

 

Hawaii Home Seller Tip Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

MAINTAIN A LUSCIOUS LAWN

Curb appeal is a big one because this will be the first impression your home makes. You want an exterior that welcomes people to the door. The island is home to a plethora of native flora to incorporate into your garden to bestow a sense of beauty and tranquility that any potential owner will embrace.

 

Recommendations for selling in Hawaii from Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

UPGRADE SPARINGLY

There is no need to call a contractor and plan on significant renovations in order to get your home ready for sale. In reality, this can subtract from your total net at closing. Not all improvements are created equal, so it's worthwhile to find out which projects will yield the highest return on your investment to ensure you don't spend money unnecessarily.

 

10 tips for first-time sellers by Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

NEUTRALIZE ODORS

Your sense of smell has the power to evoke happy or unpleasant feelings. So investing in scented candles or wall plug-ins releasing fragrances into the air of fresh baked pie, lavender, or any slew of aromatherapy scents is a brilliant way to generate feelings of calmness and pleasure inviting people to associate their visit with fond memories.

 

First-time seller tips to sell faster.

 

DEPERSONALIZE AND CLEAN 

Everybody loves hanging pictures on their walls to remind themselves of good times and reminisce. However, before listing your property, go ahead and pack away any personal items currently displayed. Seeing all of your photos or accomplishments may distract buyers from seeing themselves living in this space. Deep cleaning is also vital, as buyers will be peeking into drawers, inspecting every bathroom, and looking at each little thing imaginable. Many cleaning companies offer this service for a very reasonable price.

 

10 Tips for First-Time Sellers Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

It's a cliche but true nonetheless; pictures speak a thousand words. The vast majority of individuals will begin searching for a new home online, meticulously pouring over each photo they see. Hiring an experienced professional to capture the beauty of your home can mean the difference between someone wanting to view the house or not. Be sure to discuss this with your agent to ensure you are on the same page.

 

Tips for Selling in Hawaii Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

TELL A STORY WITH STAGING

Prospective buyers should open the front door and become part of the story that is your home. This can be accomplished with deliberate staging through sparsely placed furniture, interesting artwork on the wall, purposeful decor in each room, or by placing a pair of sunglasses and a towel on a poolside lounge chair. Set the scene to allow people to envision what life can be like when they become the new owners. 

 

Hawaii First-Time Seller Tips Mike Styring Hawaii Realty International 1-808-657-6000 Real Estate Kailua, HI 96734

 

 

 If you're exploring whether now is a good time to sell in Hawai'i, let's chat! We would be more than happy to provide you with our list of premier professionals to assist with your home improvement needs.