10 Ideas For a Quicker and Easier Sale When Selling Your House

1. NO CLUTTER. Throw out old newspapers and magazines. Pack away most of your small items like figurines and other trinkets. Store clothing that won’t be used in the near future to make closets seem roomier. Clean out the garage. Buyers like to visualize their possessions in the house and that is hard to do when the home is full of clutter. 2. Wash your windows and screens. This lets more light into the interior and dirty windows are a turn off.
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3. Keep everything extra clean. Wash fingerprints and dirt from light switch plates. Clean the floors, stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer. A clean house makes a better first impression and tells buyers that the home has been well cared for. 4. Put brighter bulbs in light sockets to make rooms appear brighter, especially dark rooms. Replace any burnt-out bulbs. Turn all lights on before buyers come to view the home. 5. Make all minor repairs that you can find. Everything you don’t repair now will be revealed in the home inspection and can create a bad impression. Small problems such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, cracked receptacle covers or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they'll give buyers the impression that the house isn't well maintained. 6. Shoot for good curb appeal. Cut the grass, rake any leaves, trim the bushes, and edge the walks. Put a couple of bright potted flowers near the entryway to cheer things up and get the buyers attention. 7. Patch holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if applicable. 8. Clean dirty gutters. 9. Polish or replace your front doorknob and door numbers. 10. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. If carpets are old and need replacing, it is worth while to replace them. The additional price you receive for your house will most likely outweigh the expense. Open the windows. The number one turn off to a potential buyer is an unpleasant odor.

Properties in Alexandria

Expertly renovated in 2020, this refined dwelling epitomizes contemporary luxury while retaining its timeless allure.

2302 Emmett Dr

Nestled on an expansive lot exceeding one-third of an acre, the residence provides ample indoor and outdoor living space. Upon arrival, you're welcomed by an inviting open-plan living area on the main floor, seamlessly merging sophistication with practicality. The first level features a bedroom suite and a versatile den/office space, ideally suited for today's dynamic lifestyles. Ascending to the second level, ten-foot ceilings and expansive windows flood the primary suite with natural light, creating a serene retreat. The primary suite is complemented by a generously sized walk-in closet, ensuring ample storage space. Additionally, the primary bathroom features a large double vanity, an oversized shower, and abundant natural light, offering both functionality and luxury. Two well-appointed bedrooms and a full bath complete the second floor, providing comfort and convenience for family and guests alike. Outside, the property is meticulously landscaped and fully enclosed, providing privacy and tranquility. A private sports court and storage shed enhance the outdoor experience, catering to active lifestyles and offering endless opportunities for recreation and entertainment. Ideally located, this residence is blocks away from schools, ensuring access to quality education. Commuting is effortless, with convenient access to Old Town, the National Harbor, and Downtown DC. The nearby Huntington Metro Center offers seamless transportation options, while the Mount Vernon Trail and Potomac River provide unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated between Fort Belvoir and the Pentagon, with Andrew Air Force Base just a short 15-mile drive away. The property is within walking distance of the Mount Vernon Rec Center and Belle Haven Country Club for leisure and social activities, promising a lifestyle of convenience and luxury. Whether indulging in biking along scenic trails, kayaking on the river, or simply enjoying a peaceful jog, this home offers the ideal setting for embracing an active and vibrant lifestyle. In conclusion, this meticulously renovated home seamlessly blends timeless elegance with modern amenities, providing a harmonious blend of comfort, style, and convenience in one of Alexandria's most sought-after neighborhoods. [ - $763,000]

Luxury Living in Potomac Yard! Newly constructed in 2023 and never before lived in! Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed space featuring 2 large bedrooms and 2.

737 Swann Ave #401

5 bathrooms adorned with high-end designer finishes reminiscent of a model home. The gourmet kitchen is a culinary haven, boasting beautiful cabinets and modern appliances. Both bedrooms offer luxury walk-in closets and individual in-suite full bathrooms. Enjoy the Primary suite w/ bathroom with dual vanity & stand-up glass shower. Guest bedroom with full shower with tub, ensuring comfort and privacy for all occupants. Entertain friends in a gourmet kitchen featuring a beautiful quartz waterfall island. Kitchen comes with new stainless steel energy efficient appliances. Den facing kitchen can be used as a office or multipurpose area, the options are endless. Rooftop terrace w/grill available for residents. Gym and front desk concierge. This sunlit, upscale condo offers an unparalleled living experience. Next to National Landing and home Amazon HQ, this condo is nestled amidst the greenery, it boasts a prime location facing a sprawling 24-acre park, inviting the outdoors in. Convenience is key, with a short stroll to the metro or mere blocks away from the rapid transit bus, connecting effortlessly to the Metro Station Connector. Strategic proximity places you just 2 miles from Reagan National Airport, Pentagon, and Crystal City, while Washington, DC is a mere 3 miles away. Enjoy the perks of energy-efficient living with Energy Star Certified appliances, ensuring low utility bills without compromising on comfort. Stay connected with prewired high-speed internet and Cable TV, seamlessly integrated into the home. Explore the vibrant surroundings with new shopping destinations, and the charm of Del Ray and Old Town Alexandria just moments away. Parking is a breeze with a 2 assigned parking spaces in covered Parking Garage. In-unit stackable full-size washer and dryer add to the convenience of everyday living. Perched on the 4th floor, this condo offers beautiful views from the balcony, providing a serene retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to enjoy luxury living at its finest, offering great value compared to area apartment rentals. [Potomac Yard - $1,225,000]

Here is your Happily Ever After Storybook home.

4305 Agnew Ave

This Cape Cod offers a charming setting with gorgeous landscaping. From the expansive driveway to the large fenced yard, the outdoors give a country feel with the convenience of being 10 minutes from Ft Belvoir and 12 miles to the Pentagon. As you enter the first floor, there are hardwood floors, freshly painted through out, family room, dining area and separate room that could be used as a bedroom or additional living space. Head upstairs to beautiful hardwood floors, neutral colors, 3 bedrooms and full bath. The lower level has storage area and recreation room, as well as entrance from the back yard. Enjoy an evening on the large back porch overlooking the back yard oasis. Included is a separate garage with room above that has endless possibilities. Get ready to start a new chapter in this Virginia Charmer, it is just waiting for your story to begin. [Mount Zephyr - $799,000]

** Seller requests showings to start on 4/27/24****Welcome to your charming 3-level townhome nestled in the heart of Alexandria! Over 2,200 square feet on all 3 levels.

5905 Ambassador Way

This beautifully updated residence offers the perfect blend of modern convenience and comfortable living. Step inside to discover a spacious and inviting layout, with the kitchen conveniently located at the front, ensuring easy access and ample natural light. The kitchen boasts sleek countertops, contemporary appliances, and plenty of cabinet space, making it a chef's delight. Entertain guests or unwind after a long day on the deck, where you can enjoy al fresco dining or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings. Upstairs, you'll find three generously sized bedrooms, providing plenty of space for family and guests. The primary bedroom features an ensuite bath for added privacy and convenience. With 2.5 baths in total, mornings are a breeze for everyone in the household. Conveniently located near shops, dining, and transportation, this townhome offers the perfect combination of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. Don't miss your chance to make this your new home sweet home! *less than 2miles from the metro* [Runnymeade - $575,000]

You’ve heard of Old Town Alexandria’s Walled Gardens.

902 S Saint Asaph St

This is your chance to have one that is truly brag-worthy! The sellers have spent years planning, modifying and cultivating their outdoor space – both front and back. With a focus on plants native to the region, they individually selected each flower, shrub and groundcover with meticulous care for how the color and fragrance would complement other plantings. The result is beautiful, four-season interest. The garden has been maintained with ecologically-friendly products, compost and even earthworms, yielding a natural ecosystem attractive to (and healthy for) butterflies, hummingbirds and songbirds. The latticework brick walls and custom wooden gate incorporating an antique cast iron vent grate bring classic old-world charm to the inviting space. Set up seating on the brick patio to enjoy the environs! The front is deep and the steps are framed with more greenery, color and fragrant blossoms as you walk to the front door and covered portico. Check out the front and back walled garden planting “maps” with companion photos from the garden to see the beauty you’re in store for! **** Please don’t think that this description starts with the garden to distract from the interior of the house: it absolutely will not disappoint! Through the custom mahogany front door, the main level has a modern, open plan. The front living room features built-in cabinets/shelving and a wood-burning fireplace. A graceful arch separates the living and dining rooms with crown molding and a gallery artwork-hanging system in both. The dining room, with a Lindsey Adelman-designed light fixture, is open to a chef’s delight of a kitchen. Starting with a Viking professional-grade cooktop and Best By Broan vent hood above, the stainless steel appliances complement the two-tone custom cabinets with recessed doors, French floor tile and other high end finishings. For extra kitchen storage, there’s a pantry at the top of the stairs to the lower level, illuminated by an Artemide light fixture. At the back of the house is a sunroom addition with heated flooring and a ceiling fan for 4-season comfort, and a door with steps to the garden. **** Upstairs are two generous bedrooms. With Mahogany French doors between, the entire level can be used as a single primary suite. Alternatively, the doors close and lock to separate the bedrooms, or the doors could be reverted to a wall for two, totally unconnected rooms. The back bedroom has a door that can be opened for extra air flow and provides roof access. (You might consider adding decking and a railing for a future roof-deck/balcony!) The tastefully updated upper level bathroom provides good cabinet space and – with under-floor heating - will warm your feet on the coldest of winter nights. **** The lower level is currently set up as an office with custom built-in cabinetry and a mix of Flor Carpet tiles for warmth and Vinyl tiles for practicality. With direct access to a back door, the space is fully functional as a bedroom suite, with a nicely refreshed bathroom that gets a peak of light from the outside. Alternatively – at your option - use the space as an office or rec room! The laundry/utility room and area under the stairs offer plenty of storage space on this level.**** The home is notable for the careful selection of each finishing for functionality, style and quality. The moldings, bath and kitchen fixtures, lighting and more are sure to impress. As for major systems, the HVAC was replaced in 2008 and a Bosch tankless water heater installed in 2021. The home has 200 Amp electrical service with a whole-house surge protector. These and more are detailed in a list of considerable updates (please ask to see it)! **** Parking is easy in your own space directly in front of the house. And alley access in the back allows trash bins outside your walled garden . Check out this wonderful home in person! [Yates Gardens - $1,100,000]

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Will Nesbitt

View posts by Will Nesbitt
Will is the principal broker of Nesbitt Realty and Condo Alexandria. He is licensed in anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but focuses on those communities found in and around Alexandria, Arlington, Mount Vernon and Springfield/Franconia. Will has been involved in real estate management, sales and investment for more than twenty years. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army. While in the army, he studied Russian at Monterey's Defense Language Institute. He is also a "veteran of the dotcom wars" and built most of the sites associated with NesbittRealty.com Will currently resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Old Town, overlooking New Alexandria. He is a former president of the Mount Vernon Youth Athletic Association and founded the Alexandria Fun with Friends Group. Will is the author of BattlestorM, a tabletop fantasy game, which was published by Ral Partha Publishing in the late '90's, and Arthur's Realm, a boardgame available at the Gamecrafter.