Simple fixes that make your home stand out and attract stronger offers in Windsor-Essex
When your home hits the market in Windsor-Essex, you’re not just competing with other listings, you’re competing for emotional attention. Buyers decide how they feel about a home within the first 60 seconds, and that impression often determines whether they make an offer or keep scrolling to the next property.
Buyer’s make a decision in less than 10 seconds after being in your home. Here are the ten things buyers notice right away during a showing, and how to prepare your home so it stands out in today’s Windsor-Essex market.
1. The Smell of the Home
Buyers will comment on odours before they comment on upgrades. Pet smells, lingering cooking scents, cigarette smoke, damp basements, plug in deodorizers – they all stand out and they can be off-putting.
Simple fix
Deep clean, empty garbages, run an air purifier, clean up litter boxes or pet messes, avoid strong scents, and keep windows open before showings.
2. Natural Light
Windsor-Essex buyers love bright spaces, especially in older neighbourhoods like Walkerville, South Windsor, and Amherstburg.
Simple fix
Open blinds, remove heavy drapes, and swap to higher-lumen bulbs.
3. Clutter and Surface Cleanliness
Countertops, bathrooms, laundry surfaces, and floors tell a story about how well the home is maintained.
Simple fix
Clear surfaces, hide small appliances, and keep garbage bins empty.
4. Exterior Condition
Curb appeal matters – it’s the first impression. Before they step through the door, buyers are inspecting the driveway, landscaping, porch, and front door.
Simple fix
Fresh mulch, swept walkways, clean door hardware, and a tidy porch deliver instant impact.
5. Signs of Deferred Maintenance
Peeling paint, loose railings, cracked caulking, and outdated fixtures suggest “work.”
Simple fix
Make small repairs before listing. Minor touches influence perceived value far more than their actual cost.
6. Room Size and Layout Flow
Buyers want open, functional spaces. Oversized furniture or too many décor pieces can make rooms feel smaller.
Simple fix
Reposition furniture, remove excess pieces, and keep pathways clear.
7. Updated (or Outdated) Kitchens and Bathrooms
These two areas heavily influence perceived value in Windsor-Essex homes. Even cosmetic issues like mismatched hardware or stained counters can work against you.
Simple fix
Consider small upgrades like painting cabinets, swapping hardware, or replacing lighting.
8. Basement Condition
Many local buyers check for moisture concerns due to our region’s clay soil and older foundation styles.
Simple fix
Run a dehumidifier, seal cracks, and remove stored items from walls to show a clean, dry perimeter.
9. Overall Cleanliness of Floors
Buyers pick up on dirty grout, worn carpet, and pet hair immediately.
Simple fix
Professional cleaning goes a long way — especially for tile, hardwood, and staircases.
10. How the Home Feels
Emotion drives offers. Buyers react to energy, flow, noise level, temperature, and overall comfort.
Simple fix
Keep the home bright, welcoming, quiet, and cool or warm depending on the season.
Why This Matters in Windsor-Essex
Homes that feel well-kept and move-in ready attract stronger offers and spend fewer days on market — even in slower periods. Our team sees it every week. The homes that show the best also sell the best.
If you’re thinking of making a move, The Dan Gemus Real Estate Team’s in-house media, prep guidance, and full marketing system help your home stand out the moment buyers walk through the door.
Reach out to the professionals at The Dan Gemus Real Estate Team Ltd., Brokerage, 7 days/week for a free home market evaluation anywhere in Windsor and Essex County.
*This blog is not intended to replace legal, accounting, environmental or financial advice, nor is it intended to solicit those under contract with another Brokerage.
