Selling Real Estate

Preparing Your Property to Show

First Impressions Are Lasting. The view from the street has an impact on the buyer's reaction to the whole house. The addition of seasonal flowers works wonders. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged. Re-seed bare spots in the lawn and get landscaping in top shape. Be sure snow and ice are removed. Remember the importance of exterior paint and the appearance of the front door.

Spruce It Up Inside. Faded walls and worn or soiled carpeting reduce appeal. Repairing cosmetic blemishes will pay maximum dividends. Most buyers are attracted to homes offering "move-in" condition and neutral colors. Buyers often overestimate the cost of handling decor changes themselves. Place excess furniture in storage to make rooms appear larger.

Can You See The Light?  Keep your home looking cheerful. Dark rooms feel dreary, so keep the draperies open to let the sun shine in through sparkling windows. Provide a feeling of glowing warmth by turning on all lights (closets, too) for any showing. Replace burned-out light bulbs, especially in the basement.

Fix that Faucet!  Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing. Also attend to loose knobs or handrails, sticking doors, or warped drawers, which can detract from your home's value.

Make Closets Look Bigger.  Neat, well-ordered closets suggest room to spare. Can you move extra items to another location?

From Top to Bottom.  Display the full size of your basement, garage and storage areas by removing all unnecessary articles. Brighten dull, dark basements by painting the walls. Remove any items stored on basement stairs.

Tell the Kids.  Make sure your children keep their toys and clothes picked up in their bedrooms and the family room.

Kitchens are the Heart of the Home. Keep range and oven areas sparkling clean. Be sure all appliances are in good working order. Remove any excess items from kitchen cabinets and pantry to make them more spacious.

Bathrooms Need to Sparkle. Repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Clean mirrors and countertops. Replace shower curtain, if needed.

It's Cold Outside. Showings during fall and winter can be a hit when there are logs crackling in the fireplace.

The Icing on the Cake.  Setting the dining room table as though it's time for a dinner party helps buyers imagine themselves living there. Having cut flowers on display can add fragrance and beauty to your home.