Lawn and
Yard: Your lawn and yard should appear well maintained and
free of toys, litter, personal belongings, etc. Grass should be
cut and leaves raked. A buyer's first impression starts with your
yard.
Sidewalks
and Driveways: In winter months, be sure walks and driveways
are clear of snow and ice. Repair cracks or defects if necessary.
Front
Entrance: This should be clean and free of clutter because
it is your buyer's first introduction to what they might expect
of your home's interior. A fresh coat of paint, repairs to any steps
or railings should be done if needed..
Windows:
Clean windows are important. Blinds, shades, and curtains
should be kept open to permit the maximum amount of natural sunlight
to illuminate your home.Good illumination of your home's interior
prevents a dark, dreary, impression. Buyers prefer a bright and
airy feeling in a home. Turn on all lights during showings.
Floors:
In all rooms, floors should be clean and uncluttered regardless
of whether they are wood, tile, linoleum, carpet, or other material.
It is an unpleasant distraction for buyers to avoid tripping over
your clutter. Vacuum and clean your floors if needed.
Kitchens
and Bathrooms: For many buyers, the kitchen and bathrooms
are the most important rooms as far as the buying decision is concerned.
Cleanliness of floors, sinks,countertops, kitchen appliances, tubs,
showers, and toilets is essential. Avoid clutter in kitchens and
bathrooms. They should be spotless, fresh and dry. If necessary,
repair caulking around the tub and grout between the tiles. Towels
and rugs should be clean and neat. Scrub tile if needed. Mirrors
and glass shower doors should be sparkling clean. Clean clutter-free
kitchens and bathrooms will improve the price offered to you by
buyers.
Storage
Places: Basements, attics, garages, closets, cabinets, and
other storage places appear much larger when they are neat and well
organized. If possible, remove items that you intend to discard
before moving to your new residence.
Bedrooms:
Keep them neat. Beds should be made and clothing put away.
Safety:
Remove and repair all items that could cause visitors to
stumble or be hurt in any way. This is essential.
Odors:
Pets, smoking, cooking, or substances can cause odors that discourage
sales. A freshener spray or scented candle can make your home smell
fresh and clean.
Pets:
Animals (especially dogs and cats) should be separated and
kept away from buyers. Although you love your pets, they are strange
animals to an unfamiliar person/buyer. Some buyers are allergic,
afraid, or uncomfortable in the presence of other people's pets.
Repairs:
If you know that something clearly needs repair, don't delay.
Fix that leaky faucet, broken window, loose door knob, or whatever
needs repair. Is a fresh coat of paint in any rooms necessary ?
