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
Interior
  • 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)
Lawn & Grounds
  • 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.