PREPARING YOUR HOME

With buyers, first impressions count. A small investment in time and money will give your home an edge over other listings in the area when the time comes to show it to a prospective buyer.

SOME SUGGESTIONS THAT WILL HELP YOU GET TOP MARKET VALUE:

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

  • Oil squeaky doors
  • Tighten doorknobs
  • Replace burned out lights
  • Clean and repair windows
  • Touch up chipped paint
  • Repair cracked plaster
  • Repair leaking taps and toilets

SPIC AND SPAN

  • Shampoo carpets
  • Clean all floors and surfaces
  • Clean entire home
  • Clean furnace
  • Clean refrigerator and stove
  • Clean and freshen bathrooms
  • Vacuum air vents and returns

THE FIRST IMPRESSION

  • Clean and tidy entrance
  • Functional doorbell
  • Polish door hardware

CURB APPEAL

  • Cut lawns
  • Trim shrubs and lawns
  • Weed and edge gardens
  • Pick up any litter
  • Clear walk and driveway of leaves
  • Repair gutters and eaves
  • Touch up exterior paint

THE BUYING ATMOSPHERE

  • Be absent during showings
  • Turn on all lights
  • Open drapes & blinds in the daytime
  • Play quiet background music
  • Keep pets outdoors
  • Clean pet sleeping/eating area
  • Clean cat box twice/day

THE SPACIOUS LOOK

  • Clear stairs and halls
  • Store excess furniture
  • Clear counters and stove
  • Make closets neat and tidy
  • Put away any unnecessary clutter


** For many people, clutter is the number one issue. You may consider renting storage until you house is sold. The cost is minimal and the difference can be dramatic.