Preparing your house for sale

First impressions sell houses! It is critical that potential buyers get that “good first impression". Preparing your home, in advance, for sale gives you a major advantage over your competition. Some attention to important details can make a big difference in a potential buyer's impression of your home.

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 items in place when they come to view. This is more difficult when you still have yours around.

When you have packed your personal items find some place outside of the house to keep them. Don't keep packed boxes in the house. You want to make it look as uncluttered and spacious as possible.

This is also a great time to dispose of all other items you are not moving to your new home. Make sure every room in the home including closets, attic, and garage are clean, tidy, and clutter free. The movers are going to charge for all thoses things you have collected, 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 "clutter", it's time to review the condition of your house. It is very difficult for any homeowner to have an objective view. Ask me to come and review your home with you. I will help point out areas that need painting or repairing if they are going to make a material difference to how quickly, or for how much your home will be sold.

Do NOT spend huge sums of money remodelling. Remember, you have no way of knowing what the next owner will like or dislike. However, there are a few basic items which are proven problem areas that you may need to address. Below, is a list of things you should review and change, where necessary.

EXTERIOR

Curb Appeal

 Power wash driveway and sidewalk. Check them for cracking and patch as necessary.

Lawn and Yard

 Your lawn must appear well maintained. The grass should be cut and edged, hedges trimmed, leaves raked, and garden weeded. Plant colorful seasonal flowers to add a cheerful look.

Windows

 Clean windows inside and out to give your home a "bright" feeling.

Exterior

 Make sure the exterior is in good condition. A fresh coat of paint or power washing will enhance "curb appeal".

Roof and Gutters

 Power wash your tile roof! Gutters and downspouts should be in good condition and free of debris.

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 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 and fresh. Repair caulking 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 childrens' rooms, keep toys tidy and not 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

 They 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 do not leak and work correctly.

Air
Conditioner

 Keep unit clean and well maintained. Remove dust and dirt from exterior of the unit and all air vents and in-takes.

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.

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