We’ve talked about curb appeal, making necessary repairs, and explained the benefits of a fresh coat of paint when it comes to selling your Cape Coral property. Those are the obvious, although necessary, improvements to take care of before your property ever graces the pages of a ‘Cape Coral homes for sale’ list.
Putting the obvious aside, there are a few more marketing strategies (three, to be exact) that you may not have considered. They may even surprise you!
Your Neighbors – Neighbors are funny. They are almost equivalent to in-laws. Neighbors can be your greatest friends, sharing backyard barbeques and waving a friendly hello as you drive by, or they can be…well, the “other kind” of neighbors. You know the ones. There’s the neighbor who doesn’t mow their yard until it’s knee high. There’s the neighbor with the outside dog who happens to howl at the moon, even when there isn’t a moon. Then there’s the one that leisurely strolls over when you are busy making repairs or pressure washing your driveway. This neighbor wants to chat, about everything…and everyone…for hours. Well, guess what? This same motley crew that you’re about to move away from can also become one of your greatest assets as you prepare to put your Cape Coral property on the market.
Many of your neighbors have friends or relatives who would just love to live down the street. What a great marketing tool! These neighbors have hosted countless barbeques, Christmas parties, and other social events that have brought numerous potential buyers through your neighborhood. These potential buyers may have even commented on the fact that they’d love to live in such a nice area…Are you getting the picture?
This is why it’s so important to touch base with your neighbors, letting them know about your plans to sell. Keep in mind, your neighbors (especially the ones who like to socialize) will be excited about the new, potential buyer. If they are aware in advance, you’ll be surprised at the favorable impression and feeling of community they can create. Just a friendly wave or a kind hello to a potential buyer can spark a feeling that they’ve found Mayberry; and who knows, maybe they have.
Sell the Lifestyle – Over time, you may have become accustomed to the little natural benefits of your Cape Coral property. It’s true, when we experience something on a daily basis, we tend to take it for granted. When selling your home, it’s time to remember all of those things that drew you to your Cape Coral property in the first place. Buying a home is largely an emotional decision and you can really affect a buyer’s emotions by capitalizing on the natural beauty of your neighborhood and property:
- Are you selling Cape Coral waterfront property? Be sure your dock is in tip top shape and all the blinds facing your canal are open. If you have a waterfront view, that is a huge selling point!
- Do you have fresh jasmine or other fragrant flowers growing in your yard? Bring some of the smell and natural beauty inside by creating fresh flower arrangements for the dining room and master bedroom.
- Are you selling your Cape Coral pool home? Your pool area can be used to create an inviting and relaxing retreat. Be sure your pool and lanai are clean. Placing a few lounge chairs and side tables on the lanai will help buyers visualize themselves enjoying their own relaxing poolside afternoon.
Remember, many Cape Coral buyers are looking for more than a sound investment. They are also buying a lifestyle. You’ll have a clear marketing edge if you appeal to this desire.
Sell Them Your Happy Memories – As we mentioned above, the buying process is a delicate balance between meeting practical needs and appealing to the emotions of the buyer. The psychology of a home sale (like any other product that is marketed today) should paint the picture of happiness and fulfillment. Here’s the breakdown:
Maybe your potential buyer is moving here to start a new life, or at least a new chapter. Strong images of happiness, peace, laughter, and contentment will solidify the thought that “this” is the place that will satisfy. Instead of decorating your Cape Coral property with generic paintings from the local furniture store, it’s time to break out the family portraits. Family photos that include backyard barbeques, weekends on the boat, or fishing from the dock will not go unnoticed. Your potential buyer may not say much, but the message of happiness and fulfillment will come through loud and clear. Do you have a hobby, such as painting or an instrument that you play regularly? Don’t put these items away in storage. Always think of the message behind your items. Your easel, canvas and paints set up in the back office overlooking the water tell a story all their own. “This house is peaceful and inspires creativity.”
On the other hand, a home that is too generic is just that…generic. Your buyer will be much more interested in an immaculately kept home full of happy memories than a stuffy show home void of personality.
Selling your Cape Coral property is a bit different than selling in any other part of the nation. We sell homes, but we also sell a way of life. By capitalizing on the benefits of our unique and enviable lifestyle, you are sure to experience success.
If you are ready to put your Cape Coral home on the market, give us a call. We know Cape Coral…and we know how to sell your Cape Coral property!
