Tips for Preparing Your Home for Sale – Let’s Make It Sing
When we team up to sell your home, we are here to help you get the most for the home you have loved and cared for. Here are some tips and tricks for preparing your home for sale to create that all important strong first impression. (You don’t want to be the “laundry pile house” do you?)
Focus First on Curb Appeal!
- Mow, weed, trim and water your lawn regularly
- Make sure you can read your house address numbers
- Check locks on all doors to make sure they work like new
- Repair and repaint any cracks in exterior plaster
- Paint or thoroughly wash the house exterior
- Paint your front door and mailbox
- Polish your door and entry hardware
- Make sure your doorbell is functional
- Place a new welcome mat at the door
- Wash the windows so they are transparent
- Repair damaged screens and windows
- Remove extra vehicles from the driveway
- Sweep the walkway and driveway as needed
- Clean oil stains from your driveway and garage
- Remove distracting lawn ornaments
- Clean up after your pets on a daily basis
- Repair any fence or gate
- Make sure your roof and gutters are in good shape
- Refresh patio by power washing
- Give wood decks a boost with a fresh coat of stain
- Put tools in bins in the garage or shop
- Place lawn furniture and small tables in conversational groupings outside
- Hang miniature white lights in trees and around umbrellas to create a warm glow
Kitchen and Bath
- Place seldom-used small appliances in cupboards
- Wipe down insides of drawers and install dividers
- Install new shelf and drawer liners
- Clean ovens thoroughly
- Clean cook tops and exhaust fans
- Make sure all burners are working
- Defrost freezers
- Clean refrigerator – inside and out
- Inspect cabinets and clear countertops
- Tighten all handles and knobs
- Make sure your mirrors and appliances shine
- Check for leaky faucets and caulk sinks and tubs
- Deodorize garbage disposal, dishwasher and trash can
- Fill a large bowl with fresh fruit
- Set an open cookbook on the counter
- Leave guests tasteful treats such as coffee or tea and cookies or donuts
- In the bathroom, create a mini-spa with guest soaps, bath oils and thick towels
- Scrub and polish all sinks and tubs
- Repair missing grout and tiles
- Repair leaking taps and toilets
- Purchase a new shower curtain and liner as well as rugs
- Roll several new towels and place in a basket on the counter
Create an Inviting Atmosphere
- Ensure a clean, organized entryway for appeal
- Repair wall and ceiling cracks
- Paint walls a neutral color scheme (remember, white never fails)
- Make sure carpet is spotless and fresh smelling
- Wipe down all light fixtures so each room sparkles
- Oil squeaky doors (don’t forget the closet doors)
- Clean draperies and blinds
- Tighten doorknobs
- Make sure windows operate properly
- Clean around fireplaces and remove ashes
- Organize closets
- Make sure laundry is clean, folded and put away
- Vacuum under beds
- Make sure all beds are made and rooms are neat and clean
- Wipe down the washer, dryer, furnace, water softener and other appliances
- Declutter! Give your home a spacious look by clearing your excess furniture, nick-knacks and other personal items
Inspire Buyers to Make an Emotional Connection
- Place a bench in your entryway for your guests’ convenience
- Plan a pleasant aroma, but not overpowering – cinnamon sticks or apple cider mix in water on the stove or in the oven
- Rearrange furniture in the family room and living room for openness
- Beautify your entertainment center by adding a few books, art, and pottery
- Drape a textured throw over the corner of a sofa or chair
- Open a board game in the family room
- Place a candelabra near the fireplace
- Play soft music on the stereo to create a comfortable atmosphere
- Open all drapery and bring in as much natural light as possible
- Scale back family photos to a few tastefully framed pictures
- Place a scented candle on the nightstand and fold a quilt at the end of the bed
- Add a centerpiece to the table
- Turn on ALL lights
Of course, we realize your situation or home may not allow you to do all of these suggestions, but if you find a few that inspire a better showing experience for buyers…everybody wins!