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First impressions sell houses! It is critical that
potential buyers get that " good first impression ". Preparing your
home for sale gives you a major advantage over your competition. A little
attention to important details can make a big difference in a potential buyer's
impression of your home.
Start to think of your property as a marketable
commodity. The first step you should take is to pack all personal items that
aren't necessary for the remainder of your time in the house. Your home's buyer
wants to be able to visualize their own personal touches in place when they come
to view. This is more difficult when you still have yours around.
You are going to have to pack in the near future
anyway, before putting your house on the market is a great time to pack family
photographs collectibles, trophies, souvenirs and ornaments.
When you have packed your personal items, find
somewhere outside of your house to keep them. Maybe a neighbor or relative close
by will take care of them for a few weeks or renting temporary storage is a low
cost option. Do not keep the packed boxes in the house, you want to make it look
uncluttered and spacious as possible.
This is also great time to remove/sell or throw out
all other items you are not planning to move with you to your new home. Make
sure every room in the home, including closets, attics and garages are clean,
tidy and clutter free. Your movers are going to charge to move all those things
you have collected over the years but don't really use. Save money, time and
effort by sorting them out now.
Once you have packed your personal items and cleaned
out the junk and clutter it's time to review the condition of your house. It is
very difficult for any home owner to have an objective view. Ask us to come and
review your home for you. We will point out the areas that need painting or
repair if they are going to make a material difference to how quickly or for how
much your home will be sold for.
Do not spend huge sums of money to remodel. Remember
you have now way of knowing what the next owners will like and dislike. However,
there are a few basic items which are proven problem areas that you may need to
take care of. Below is a list of things you should review and where necessary
change my be needed.
EXTERIOR
Curb Appeal
- Wash down driveways and sidewalks, check them for
cracking and crumbling, and patch as necessary.
Lawn and Yard
- Your lawn must appear well maintained. Grass
should be cut and edged, hedges trimmed, leaves raked and gardens weeded.
Plant seasonal colorful flowers to add a bright cheerful look.
Windows
- Clean windows inside and out to give your home a
"bright " feeling.
Siding
- Make sure the exterior siding is in good
condition. A fresh coat of paint or a power washing will enhance " curb
appeal "
Roof and Gutters
- Your roof, gutters and downspouts should be in
good condition and free of leaves.
Front Entrance
- A fresh coat of paint will go a long way toward
enhancing your home's appearance. Potted plants add a warm feeling. A
welcome door mat in good condition will immediately put potential buyers in
the right frame of mind.
INTERIOR
Kitchen
- It is well known that the kitchen is one of the
most important areas in a house. All appliances should be clean. The sink
and counter tops should be clean and uncluttered. Flooring should be in good
repair. A bowl of fresh fruit adds a nice touch.
Bathrooms
- Keep them spotless, fresh and dry. If necessary,
repair caulking around the tub and grout between the tiles. Towels and rugs
should be clean and neat. Scrub tile with mildew remover and grout cleaner.
Mirrors and glass shower door should be sparkling clean. Add a plant for a
touch of color.
Bedrooms
- Keep them neat. Beds should be made and clothing
put away. In children's rooms try to keep toys tidy and not overly
cluttered.
Walls and Woodwork
- Keep them clean and free from smudges. A new coat
of paint will impress the buyers and give your home a fresh smell. If you
need to repaint light neutral colors should be used. Beige and off-whites
have the widest appeal to the largest percentage of buyers. If you have any
rooms decorated in dark colors you should consider repainting.
Closets and Cabinets
- Storage spaces appear much larger when they are
neat and well organized. If possible, remove rarely-used items and
off-season clothing. Uncluttered and organized closets appear much
larger.
Window Treatments
- Curtains and shades should be clean and left
open. Buyers prefer a bright and airy feeling in a home.
Plumbing
- Be certain that all faucets, showers and toilets
are not leaking and work correctly.
Air Conditioner
- Keep units clean and well maintained. Remove dust
and dirt from exterior of the unit and any air vents and intakes.
Lighting and sound
- Bright cheerful lighting creates a positive
environment. Replace burned out bulbs. During showings open the blinds and
turn on lights. Turn off the TV, dishwasher, dryer and play soft background
music.
Additional Helpful Hints
- Be sure you have feature sheets available for
prospective buyers.
- A survey of your property is also very
helpful.
- Think safety first: Remove and repair all items
that could cause visitors to stumble or be hurt in any way.
- Odors - from pets, smoking or cooking - can
prevent a sale. Make sure your home looks and smells fresh.
- Pets: Animals should be kept away from the
premises during appointments or at least safely confined.
- Evaluate your home for required repairs. Fix or
replace broken appliances, windows, tiles, cabined handles, etc.
- A fresh coat of paint will significantly enhance
the eye appeal and value of your home.
If we may help you with any of your real estate
needs, please fill out the information request form below.
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