GETTING YOUR HOME READY TO SELL
The first impression of your home can make or break the interest of a buyer. If the initial impression is not agreeable, the sale may not happen as quickly as you would like. Be sure to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. You have one shot and one shot only for a pleasant first impression. The following suggestions should help:
Exterior
- Mulch flowerbeds and landscaped areas
- Cutback overgrown landscaping or anything blocking sidewalks including overhanging trees, ivy, etc.
- A clean exterior lets people know you really care about your home. Wash the front of the house with bleach and water, if it does not need a new coat of paint
- Make sure the front porch is clean and uncluttered. Sweep ceilings and corners for cobwebs and wasp nests.
- Make sure front porch light is clean, attractive and functional
- Clean gutters as needed
Interior
- De-clutter! Remember less is more. Put excessive or unnecessary furniture in storage. Make rooms seem as spacious as possible
- Take down pictures and wall hangings and place in storage if there are too many. Open wall space seems larger
- Clear off counters in kitchens and bathrooms. Put toasters, coffee makers and “stuff” in cabinets or pantry
- Clear out non essential items from closets and put in storage to make closets seem as large as possible. Every buyer is looking for lots of storage space
- Make sure all lights are working and all light bulbs are fresh. Burned-out bulbs are frustrating for buyers
- Clean all ceiling fans
- Clean cobweb from ceilings and corners
- Dust and wash baseboards
- Clean windows, window sills, curtains and blinds. Unobstructed sunlight makes a home seem more warm and inviting
- Clean and de-clutter your linen closet.
- Paint if there is any chipping paint or walls in bad shape. You will pay for it in the price later if you try to skimp here
Mechanical
- Repair any leaky faucets, running toilets, outlets that are not working, faulty switches, etc.
- Change the air filter on the central heat and air system