When it comes to preparing your home
for sale, it is important to remember first impressions count and they
have a major impact on potential Buyers. Place yourself in the potential
buyer’s shoes and try to imagine what they see when they approach
your house for the first time and walk through each room.
Here are a few common things almost any homeowner
can do to improve appeal, and of course, as your Realtor, I will provide
you with additional advice specific to your home.
- Keep your yard looking sharp. Mow and edge the
lawn regularly, and trim the shrubs.
- Make your entry inviting: Paint your front door
and buy a new front door mat.
- Paint or replace the mailbox, if needed.
- If screens or windows are damaged, replace or repair
them.
- Repair or replace worn shutters and other exterior
trim.
- Make sure the front steps are clear and hazard-free.
- Make sure the door bell works properly and has
a pleasant sound.
- Ensure that all exterior lights are working.
- Check stucco walls for cracks and discoloration.
- Remove any oil and rust stains from the driveway
and garage.
- Clean and organize the garage, and ensure the door
is in good working order.
- Repair or replace loose knobs on doors and cabinets.
- Fix any sticky or sqeaky doors.
- Shampoo carpeting or replace if very worn. Clean
tile floors, particularly the caulking.
- Brighten the appearance inside by painting walls,
cleaning windows and window coverings, and removing sunscreens.
- Repair leaky faucets and caulking in bathtubs and
showers.
- Make sure toilet seats look new and are firmly
attached.
- Repair or replace loud ventilating fans.
- Replace worn shower curtains.
- Rearrange furniture to make rooms appear larger.
If possible, remove and/or store excess furniture.
- Remove clutter throughout the house. Organize and
clean out closets and pantry.
- Make sure all kitchen appliances are clean and
work properly.
- Avoid extension cords in plain view.
- Keep washer and dryer clean and empty.
- Air conditioners/heaters, evaporative coolers,
hot water heater should be clean, working and inspected if necessary.
Replace filters.
- Check the pool and/or spa equipment and pumps.
Make sure all are working properly and that the pool and/or spa are
kept clean.
- Inspect fences, gates and latches. Repair
or replace as needed.
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