In TODAY'S market, you are competing with lots of other homes selling far below fair market value.
Marketing your home is a team effort and you are an important part of the team. Studies show that a home that appears cared for sells for more money in less time. You must look at your home through the eyes of a prospective buyer. These suggestions help set the stage for a faster sale at the highest price. They are the things that influence a buyer's first impression.
Exterior
- Your front door makes a vital first impression. Keep it clean. Paint it if necessary.
- Clean your gutters
- Repair or replace torn screens, or remove and store the screens.
- Hose or pressure wash the exterior and sidewalks
- Repair and paint gutters or exterior wood that show cracking, peeling or chipping
- Make sure lawn furniture and grill are in good condition
- Keep countertops uncluttered and kitchen accessories in order. Clean all surface units (ovens, stoves, etc.)
- Clean all surfaces, glass fronts (cabinet fronts)
- If tiles have cracked or is discoloreed, replace and recaulk those areas
- Replace furnace filters and remove dust from heater registers or vent covers
- If door sticks or folding doors are off track, repair them
- Storage is important to prospective homeowners. Cluttered closets and other storage areas accentuate a storage problem, especially in homes without basements. Store all items except those needed (off site if necessary) before you move
- If a room is dark during daylight hours, open the curtains, keep a lamp on or remove curtains altogether. A bright room is pleasing and gives an air of spaciousness. Make sure all windows gleam.
- If interior painting is necessary, use neutral colors
- Replace burned-out bulbs
- Tighten door knobs, window fittings and other hardware. Don't attempt to hide a problem. Repair cracks in walls or concrete, broken appliances, roof leaks or wet basements
- Keep steps clear of hazards
- Use attractive bedding
- Keep pets out of the way during showings.
- Address any odors
- Pack personal collecions and photos; allow prospective buyers to take emotional possession of a home
- Secure all valuables (jewelry, checkboos, bills, etc)
- Keep the lawn mowed and trimmed
- Trim and shape the scrubs. Edge along sidewalks and driveways
- Remove toys, bicycles, garbage cans from lawn
- Reseed or sod bare areas.
- Keep drivway and walkways from from pine straw, limbs, oil stains, etc.
- Put a fresh layer of pine straw or mulch on all islands.