10 Sellers Rate Their Homes ‘Perfect 10’

*Note these quotes below are directly from homeowners I consult in our area.

What pushes buyers over the edge to sell their existing home? Or, what items in particular are the most neglected areas the seller procrastinates on, but at the same time are the most desired?

All poll results were compiled by me in the numerous 2011 seller interviews I conducted, which ultimately became our local market buyers. And this market of buyers makes up a huge percentage, since most buyers are local and would like to stay in the same great school area.

So, back to the question. What features are lacking that serve as reasons for the home seller to sell; and what features do they absolutely want to see in their new place? The answers are here in direct quotes from my questionnaires asking sellers to rate their homes from a scale of 1-10 (10 being perfect) and what would make it a 10. Surely you can relate to someone here.

• Seller 1: “I rate my house 7-8, and to make it a ten a few repairs and landscape.”
• Seller 2: “I would honestly rate it a 6-7. It is in great condition. However, it doesn’t have many of the upgrades people are looking for right now. For example, no ceramic tile or wood floors, no granite countertops or stainless steel appliances etc. What would make it a ten? The interior needs to be repainted. The flooring still looks good, but in a few of the rooms it is a little worn. The exterior also could use some sprucing up.”
• Seller 3: “I could use an interior paint job, though the existent color is a sand white and adds to the spacious feel. Dining room and parlor are wall-papered above the chair rail.”
• Seller 4: “Resodded back yard.”
• Seller 5: “Larger kitchen. Updated bathrooms.”
• Seller 6: “Larger kitchen. Updated bathrooms.”
• Seller 7: “Level back yard, amenities (pool, tennis, etc.). Granite countertops, full hardwood on 1st level, finished basement.”
• Seller 8: “A kitchen upgrade would be really great; finish landscaping; updating the master bath (remove the gold fixtures).”
• Seller 9: “Upgraded kitchen and bathroom cabinetry and countertops; designer interior paint; fresh coat of exterior paint; nicer, larger shower in master bath; upgraded bathroom fixtures and lighting; deck improvements.”

And here’s my ultimate favorite! The seller who loves their home more than ANYONE….

• Seller 10: “9.5 because no perfection in life What would make it a ten? Hmmm, maybe a Ferrari in the garage.”

So let me extend the question to you. On a scale of 1-10, what would you rate your home? What would make it a 10, or even a 10+? If so don’t keep these guys waiting. Put your comments below!