Preparing Your Home To Sell
Most buyers are looking for their "dream home." So the better the condition of your home, the closer it will look to what a buyer wants. Here are tips on getting your home in mint condition to make it more appealing: External Appearance |
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![]() | Stand at several places in your front and back yards to see your home as a buyer would. Make note of anything that needs to be fixed or made more attractive. Curb appeal is the strongest way to attract buyers! |
![]() | Always keep your grass freshly trimmed and edged. |
![]() | Remove any toys, bicycles, gardening items and other yard clutter. |
![]() | Keep the sidewalk, driveway and patio freshly swept. |
![]() | Clean leaves, straw and other debris from gutters. |
![]() | Pull weeds and keep them from sprouting. |
![]() | Put big pots of colorful flowers near the door; or plant flowers near the entryway. |
![]() | Remove any wasp nests or spider webs in the leaves. |
![]() | Clean the front door or consider replacing it. Polish the doorknob, and make sure the doorbell works. |
Internal Appearance |
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![]() | Remove all excess furniture and clutter to make your house appear more spacious. Consider renting a small warehouse to store furniture/items that aren't necessary for your day-to-day comfort. |
![]() | Remove personal family photos and knick-knacks to help the buyer imagine his/her own family in your home. |
![]() | Set a pleasant mood for the buyer. Make sure the house smells clean and inviting. If you have a stereo, play soft music at low volume. Turn on all lights to brighten up rooms. |
![]() | Clean and organize closets. |
![]() | Wash or dry-clean drapes or valances. |
![]() | Dust blinds and shelves. |
![]() | Put a fresh coat of paint on walls. Light, neutral colors will appeal most to a wide variety of buyers and will make your home appear brighter and more spacious. If you've recently painted, wash away or touch up any smudges. |
![]() | Clean the windows until they sparkle. |
![]() | Shampoo the carpets and keep them vacuumed and spotless. |
![]() | Focus major attention on the cleanliness and style of the kitchen, master bath and master bedroom. These three areas are the most likely to attract or deter buyers. |
Promoting Your Home |