Quick Tips

• Create a positive first impression. Make sure your front door is clean and, if needed, freshly painted.
• Present a neatly trimmed yard. Cut the grass, trim the shrubbery, pull any weeds and free the entire area of clutter and garbage.
• Open draperies and curtains to allow the maximum amount of natural light. It gives the home a cheery look.
• Inspect Bathrooms. Repair faulty caulking; remove any mildew stains; fix cracked tile. Light a scented candle... it puts the bathroom in a flattering light and smells delightful.
• Avoid the cluttered look. Remove any excess furniture, toys, books, and other unnecessary items. These make the room appear smaller.
• Never underestimate the power of a gleaming, spotless kitchen. Cheery curtains that harmonize with floor and counter tops will impress and enchant. The same is true of bathrooms.
• For after-dark showing, turn on all your lights, from the front entry throughout the house. This gives an immediate impression of friendly glowing warmth. Lights highlight dark corners even in daylight.
• Fix any leaking or dripping faucets. Dripping water can discolor sinks and tubs and indicates faulty plumbing.
• Take care of any minor repairs... loose doorknobs, sticking and squeeking doors and drawers, cracked light switch covers, etc. These detract from the value of the home.
• Restrict pets - preferably out of the house. Also, put away the dog dish that usually sits on the kitchen floor.
• Allow prospective buyers to look around without forcing casual conversation. They are not on a social call. Ideally, you could run on an errand or take a walk during showings. Buyers are most comfortable looking when no one is home.
• Optical illusion: closets will appear more spacious when they are neatly arranged - clothing hung properly; shoes, hats, and bulky articles placed in an orderly way.
• Keep stairways clean. This makes them appear wider and also helps to avoid accidents.
• Paint faded walls and woodwork, or put up wallpaper to give the home a fresh work. These are small investments that really sell a home.
• Allow your Realtor to discuss price terms, possession and any other aspects of the home, even if you know the answers. Realtors are well-trained to do this job for you.