We have compiled this list of helpful tips to get your house ready for sale.
Whether you hire a handy man or do it yourself, these tips can help to sell
your house quickly at the highest price available. Take a little time to read
over this list and see if your house needs a little work before prospective
buyers come to view it. If you would like someone to help you, don't hesitate
to contact us.
First Impressions... The Exterior of Your House
Did you know that a first impression can actually make or break the sale? It's
important to make sure that the first impression is a good one. Following are
some helpful pointers to give the exterior of your property "curb appeal".
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Make sure that the sidewalk and front walkway is swept and free of weeds.
Repair any broken or cracked areas of the walkway. Remove any debris and make
sure that there are no obstacles to your house.
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Cut the grass and trim the shrubs. Flowers can really make your home look
cheery. If you don't have flower beds then place a few potted flowers out
front. In the fall, rake the yard free of leaves. Hoses should be coiled up and
out of the way.
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A freshly painted white fence can really freshen the entire landscape. Don't
forget to check the gate. It should easily open and close, and hang properly on
its hinges.
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Make sure that your mailbox is in good repair. A quick painting can really
improve the look. Street numbers should be added to make your house easy to
locate.
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A fresh paint job on the house is idea, but if you don't want to spend the
extra money make sure that the exterior is clean and free of dirt. You might
consider a fresh coat of paint on the trim and shutters.
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If you have a porch, make sure the corners are swept free of cobwebs. Sweep the
flooring and clean out any light fixtures.
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Clean the windows to make them shine on the inside and out. Check your screens
and make sure that there are clean and in good repair.
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The doorway should be freshly painted or at least cleaned. Make sure that the
doorbell works. Clean out the light fixtures and replace any bulbs that may be
out.
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Check your gutters and downspouts. You might consider replacing any that are in
disrepair, especially those in the front of the house or other highly visible
areas.
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The roof can be one of the most important aspects of the exterior. Replace any
broken or missing shingles. Remove leaves and branches from top and paint the
trim. If the roof is old and needs to be replaced, consider having the work
done before showing the property.
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Don't forget about the driveway and garage. Both should be well swept and free
of clutter. Hang any items that you can on the wall. Other items should be on
shelves. You might want to have a garage sale to clear out excess items.
Inside Your House
Now that you've taken care of the outside of the house, its time to start
working on the inside. There are a lot of little things that can be done to
improve the inside. Most are relatively inexpensive and can be done on a couple
of weekends. Your goal is to create an atmosphere that suggests a clean,
bright, spacious home. Elimating clutter can really show your home at its best.
Follow these simple points to success.
Living Room
Have the carpets professionally cleaned (this applies to the entire house). If
you have hardwood floors, you might want to give them a fresh coat of
polyurethane. You might consider a fresh coat of paint on the walls. It can
improve the look and give the room a smell of newness. Choose colors that are
neutral and light. Clean the windows and drapes. Arrange furniture to create
clear pathways. If you have a fireplace make sure that it is well swepted.
Clean any light fixtures and replace any broken outlet covers. Any plaster
cracks should be repaired. Flowers and plants can enhance the appearance room.
The Kitchen
The entire kitchen should look clean and fresh. To give your kitchen a "new"
look, you might want to give it a fresh paint job. Clean out the cabinets and
organize them to show off your space. Check your cabinet doors. If they're
painted, you might want to give them a fresh coat of paint or maybe some new
knobs. Make sure that all appliances are clean and in working order. Get rid of
or pack away small kitchen appliances and items that are not in use to create
an uncluttered look. Replace the burner reflectors / drip trays. These cost
very little money and really make the oven sparkle. If you have notice of a
prospective buyer's visit, you might want to do a quick walk thru and buff any
stainless steel fixtures with a dry cloth. This will make you sinks shine.
Bathroom
Make sure that the entire bathroom is sparkling clean and well lit. Missing or
cracked tiles should be replaced. Dripping faucets should be fixed. Keep
personal items out of sight. Fresh flowers can add a sweet smell to the air.
Bedrooms
The bedrooms should be clean and bright. Clean the windows and open the drapes.
Remove any excess clutter. Personal items should be out of site. Large closets
can be a big plus in a bedroom. Make sure that you organize yours to increase
the perception of space. Once again, look at you walls and see if a paint job
might improve the appearance.
Other Rooms
All carpets in the house should be professionally cleaned. Check your heating
and cooling vents for dust and dirt. If you can't get them clean with a light
dusting, then remove them and take them outside for a thorough scrub down.
Check corners at the ceiling and floorboards for dust. Make sure that there are
no signs of pest infestation anywhere in the house. If pests are a problem call
in an exterminator to take care of the problem before showing your house.
Replace any broken outlet covers and clean out light fixtures. Get someone you
know to come in as a "Buyer" and let them tell you their perceptions. They will
be able to notice things that you've missed.
The Extras
There are a few extras that you can do to make your house appeal to the
prospective buyer. Most cost very little and some may even sound a little
silly, but they have proven to be effective selling tools.
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Let the Sunshine in... Dark houses can be oppressive and are not inviting. Do
everything that you can to ensure a bright sunny environment. Make sure that
you house is well lit. Windows should be clean. Curtains and shades should be
open to allow for the most sunlight. Replace any light bulbs that are out or at
an inadequate wattage. If its cold out and you have a fireplace, a fire can
really make you house cozy. Try to keep the colors of your rooms light and
neutral.
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The Scents of a Successful Sale. An unpleasant odor can really leave a bad
impression. Fill your house with pleasant aromas. It might seem a little silly,
but a pan of vanilla or cinnamon and water placed in a warm oven can create the
homey illusion of baking cookies. For a smelly garbage disposal, try placing
grinding up some lemon peels. In the bathroom, clean thoroughly with bleach or
lemon scented products. Potpourri placed about the house to fill the house with
light scents. Make sure that nothing is too over-powering. If you smoke, you
might consider refraining from smoking indoors and giving the entire house a
fresh coat of paint or have it professionally deodorized. If you have a litter
box in the house, you may want to take it and the cat outside for the day.
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Fill You Home With Pleasant Sounds. Light classical or instrumental music at a
low volume can create an enjoyable atmosphere and help to drown out any sounds
from the street. Avoid any disturbing sounds like dishwashers or lawn mowers.
Children and pets are adorable, but remember that they can be a distraction
from your house. Don't undervalue the sounds of peace and quiet.
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Fresh flowers placed around the house can be a lovely touch.
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Replace plastic switch covers with metal or porcelain to give your house some
extra charm.
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Let them see the home not you! Prospective buyers do not want to be a bother.
Try to be away from the home when the property is shown. If you are home when
the salesperson comes to show, please allow the agent to take the potential
buyer through your home. Graciously retire to the back yard or to another part
of the house. If the prospect feels watched or intrusive, he will hurry
through.
The most important thing to remember let your agent do the selling. The agent
should be able to point out anything that needs to be repaired or replaced. If
your house is currently vacant, you should make arrangements to have someone
mow the lawn and check over the house on a regular basis.
