Preparing Your Home to Sell

Things to do to get your home saleable.

• First Impressions Last - Do everything you can - inside and outside - to make your home as attractive as possible in the eyes of the buyer. Homes that look their best tend to sell faster and command every dollar they're worth.
• Painting - A fresh coat of paint for home, garage, even fences, may be one improvement that creates the most positive first impression.  Painting inside walls can pay dividends far beyond the time, effort and expense involved.
• The Lawn - Lawn trimmed, clear of debris. Gutters sealed and downspouts cleaned.
• Main Entry - Tidy the front entrance. Door brass polished, worn trim or rusty mail box painted.  Storms and screens cleaned. New doormat put out. If possible, keep curbside free of parked cars.
• The Little Things - Tend to "little things" - oil squeaking doors, tighten loose cabinet knobs, take out removable stains, replace damaged floor tiles.  All windows, doors and drawers should open and close easily.
• The Kitchen - The kitchen is one place in the home that buyers look at closely. Tighten leaky faucets, repair or replace faulty switches, outlets, light fixtures and any appliances that will "go with the home."
• The Bathroom - The bathroom gets close scrutiny too. Keep it spotless. Tiles scrubbed and grouted, faucets polished, toiletries and medicines in their chest. Laundry items in closed hamper.
• Keep It Clean - Cleaned windows and clear uncluttered closets and basement contribute to a more attractive home.   Clean soiled carpeting.
• De-Clutter - Clear out accumulated items from closets, cabinets and under counters - also clear the garage. Consider holding a garage sale prior to showing your home.
• Lights! - Make home as light, airy and spacious as possible. Draw back drapes. Turn on a few extra lights.
• Remove Distractions - Keep pets out of the way. Soft background music can contribute to a relaxed mood, but a loud radio or TV, like pets, will tend to be distracting.
• Ah, The Aroma - Fresh bread or cookies baking in the oven help create a "homey" atmosphere.