When preparing a home for sale, many people focus on the interior or exterior, often forgetting about the garage! The garage is usually used for storage, tools, and clutter. However, garages are on a lot of new homebuyers check-lists. Ensuring your garage is in tip-top condition will not only impress buyers looking to check off the box, it will increase your property's value as well.
1. Clean, Clean, Clean!: When you don't know where to put something, 9 times out of 10 you just throw it in a corner of the garage. Remove anything unnecessary and place it in storage until your home sells. Or, if it's something you really don't need anymore, have a yard sale or get rid of it! De-cluttering can have a dramatic impact on how homebuyers view the garage. Invest in a garage storage system if you have to. This doesn't mean to keep all of your clutter, but stage your stuff in a way that looks neat and presentable to buyers. Show them how well the space can be organized! Overhead storage and tall shelves can make the garage look very spacious and neat. If you have bikes or children's toys, arrange them in a way that looks neat and presentable.
2. Garage Door: How does your garage look from the outside? Your garage door should match the overall aesthetic of the exterior of your home. Oftentimes, a fresh coat of paint or some landscaping will do the trick. If there are any hinges or parts not working, investing time and money into getting them fixed will increase the value of your home on the market.
3. Garage Floor: Most people forget about their garage floor. However, this is just as important as any other floor in your home. Sweep up any dust, dirt or cat liter. If you have oil or other stains, use an old towel or cloth to wipe it up. Paint thinner or a special cement floor cleaner can get rid of the oil.
4. Laundry: Washer and drying machines can be a big source of clutter. If you don't have anywhere else that you can put them (a closer or spare room in your home?) then make sure the area where they are is CLUTTER FREE. Create a separate space out of the laundry area in your garage. Install a drying rack, cabinets, or separate fixtures to make it look like it belongs.
If you're preparing your home for sale, and aren't sure where to start, contact Diane Ryberg of Flourish In Your Space! Diane can help you organize and de-clutter your garage and any other spaces in your home.