When we are working to prepare your house to go on the market, it can be easy to focus on the things you love about your house... the sunny living room, the updated kitchen, the backyard that's great for entertaining.

But when buyers walk through your home, they might end up focusing elsewhere: the steep driveway, the small kitchen, the overflowing closet, etc.

So, here's a helpful lens for us to consider...

What are the biggest objections that buyers are likely to have about your house... and how can we present those areas in the best possible light?  Let's take a look at a few common examples.

1. A Steep Lot or Challenging Landscaping

If your home sits on a sloped lot, that might raise questions for some buyers about mowing or maintenance.  As we prepare your house for the market, let's make sure the lawn is freshly mowed and the landscaping is neat and tidy. A well-cared-for exterior helps shift the focus from "this yard and landscaping might be difficult to maintain" to "the outside looks great... let's head inside."

2. A Small Kitchen or Dining Area

A small (cozy?) space doesn't have to feel cramped - but it can feel that way if it's filled with too much furniture or clutter. Let's simplify... removing that extra chair in the corner, clearing the countertops, etc. We want to make the space feel as open, functional, and efficient as possible.

3. A Tight Primary Closet

Storage space is high on the wish list for many buyers... and an overly full closet can make a space feel even smaller. Let's take out some of your clothing and personal items. A closet that's 75% full feels roomy... but one that is 95% to 110% full feels overwhelming.

Bottom line... let's aim to strengthen your home's weakest link.

Buyers will notice the positive attributes of your home - but they'll also notice the weak spots. We should spend our time identifying those potential objections before the house hits the market, and taking steps to make sure those areas show as well as possible.