Tips for Sellers
Thinking of Selling?
You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
The best advice I can give a Seller is to look at your home through the eyes of a typical Buyer and see what they would see.
Start by walking through your front door with pen and paper in hand and stop in the foyer and look around. What do you see?
Write down any defects, scratches, cracks, stains, and odors that you discover in every room. Then either address them or factor these items into your asking price. Do that for every room including the front and rear yard.
A small investment in time and money will give your home an edge over other listings in your area. Here are some practical ideas to prepare your home and help you get Top Market Value. (Staging your home is also a great idea)
General Maintenance
- oil squeaky doors
- tighten door knobs
- replace burned out lights bulbs
- clean and repair windows
- touch up chipped paint
- repair cracked plaster
- clean furniture
- repair leaking taps and toilets
- repair seals on tubs and basin
Curb Appeal
- cut lawns
- trim shrubs and lawns
- weed and edge gardens
- pick up litter
- clear walks and driveway of leaves or snow
- repair gutters and eaves
- clean out garage
- touch up exterior paint
The Buying Atmosphere
- arrange to be absent from your home during showings
- turn on all lights
- light up the fireplace
- open drapes in daytime
- have quiet background music playing
- keep pets outdoors (if possible) and please clean the litter box
- Bake cookies for showings if possible
Spic and Span
- shampoo carpets
- clean washer, dryer and stationary tubs
- clean fridge and stove
- clean and freshen bathrooms
The First Impression
- clean and tidy the entrance
- install a functional doorbell
- polish any door hardware
The Spacious Look
- clear clutter from stair and halls
- store excess furniture
- clear counters and stove
- closets should be neat and tidy
