Have you ever heard of “Owner Blindness?”  It’s an interesting phenomenon that occurs to practically every home owner within two years of owning their home:  you get so used to your home that you forget some of the features you enjoy every day (and things you want to change/update but never get around to).  Here are 6 tips to point out (as usual, I’m short and sweet here), all may or may not specifically apply to you:

1.    Storage

We’re great at extolling the value of walk-in closets and unfinished rooms, but what about extra linen closets?  Or the size of the pantry?  Do your spare and guest bedrooms offer double door closets or closet organizing systems?  What about built-in units in the living room or family room?  Walk through your home with fresh eyes, or ask a friend to join you.  You’re probably moving because you’ve outgrown the space, and recognize the storage the new owners will love in your home.

2.    Utilities

Once a buyer is interested in your home, they’ll sometimes ask about the average utilities.   Why not make low utility bills and energy efficient appliances a selling point?  It will help sell your home by allowing the buyer to budget the cost of owning your home.

3.    Neighborhood

When people buy a home, they are also buying a lifestyle.  Of course they want a structurally sound, comfortable environment that meets all of their practical needs, but there’s also the feel of it – the sense of “I like it here.”  That includes things like the community – annual yard sales, block parties, trick-or-treating or movie nights?  Do kids play in the cul-de-sac?  Do people wave and stop to talk when walking their dogs?

4.    Curb Appeal

Buyers generally notice the details.   Have you planted some ground cover that makes maintaining your yard easier?  Does it help with water run-off or soil erosion?  How about those perennials in the back yard?  If your home is on the market at a time when they’re not in bloom, buyers would love to know how beautiful the yard is in the spring.  Flowering trees or shrubs, citrus and fruit plants or vines?  Take photos of your yard in its glory and have those on display when it’s time to show your home.  Many of my clients put together attractive binders that expose before and after photography – a big help in showing the buyer the pinnacle of your home’s landscape design.

5.    Updates to Structural or Mechanical

It’s easy to focus on the cosmetic updates and the beauty you’ve added to your home.  Renovated kitchens and baths, new fixtures and finishes – these come to mind easily and they show well.   Even a new roof or replacement windows are top-of-mind projects.   But just as important are all the things you’ve done “behind the scenes.” Maybe you added a new HVAC system or upgraded the heating.  Did you replace old wiring or plumbing?  Add insulation to an attic or added room?  Maybe you added solar for your hot water?  They’re important to note to a buyer, and even though they will come up in a home inspection and TDS (Transfer Disclosure Statement), it’s better to promote these improvements up front to buyers.

6.    Outdoor Living Space

My favorite topic.  I’m often asked why I moved to San Diego, and I wonder why I get that question – the weather!  I was warned before moving here that I’d never get indoor chores done, and that prediction proved true. What outdoor areas does your home offer that would make it more attractive than your competition? Outdoor living spaces are increasingly popular and if you can do simple things to create a space like this it will get noticed – and help you sell.