- The First Glance
- When a Realtor arrives at the home with a potential buyer, the first few seconds can literally make or break a sale. Make certain that the lawn, sidewalk, and landscaping are neat and attractive. In cold weather, the walkways should be clear of snow and ice.
- The Entry
- The front entry area should be swept clean, and the front door should be in good condition (painted, if necessary). A seasonally decorative touch can set a warm, inviting tone.
- The Windows
- Clean windows help to maximize the amount of light entering the home. Keep curtains and window coverings open, wherever possible, to achieve a bright, open effect.
- The Surroundings
- Faded or worn paint and wallpaper can create a dreary effect throughout the interior. Make sure to spruce up with the necessary touch ups.
- The Furnishings
- A cluttered look will make a room seem smaller than it really is. Remove extra furnishings wherever possible to give your home a clean, simple appearance. That will allow the prospective buyer to imagine their own belongings and personal style.
- Storage
- One of the first things a typical buyer looks for is adequate closet and storage space. Maximize the size of your closets by removing excess items and neatly arranging the remaining items.
- Kitchen and Bathrooms
- These are the most important rooms and should be clean and spotless. Potential buyers will invariably downgrade the desirability of a home if the kitchen and baths are less than spotless. Make sure everything shines!
- Repairing The Little Things
- Certain repairs can bring you a return on your investment. Loose door knobs, doors that don't close all the way, screens off the track, and cracked window panes are all little things but to a prospective buyer they can suggest neglect. To maximize your home's value, it's smart to fix these items.
- Lighting Up The Dark Areas
- Whenever possible, make sure lamps are on in areas of the house that are dark. Also, turn lights on in the basement, attic, and other areas a buyer will want to see.
Once the above items have been addressed, leave the selling to the agent. We recommend that sellers excuse themselves during showings for perspective buyers usually feel more comfortable in discussing the property if the owners are not present.