"You never get a second chance to make a first impression!" |
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 Make sure that your property has Curb Appeal. The first things that a prospective buyer sees is the exterior of you home. A little time and effort can make a big difference in the first impression that your home makes on a prospective buyer. And that first impression can pay off when the sale is made!
Use the following checklist to help with the first impression of your home:
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Keep lawn well cut and trimmed.
Weed flower gardens regularly.
Trim shrubs and dead trees.
Repair fences and gates if necessary.
Organize toys and lawn equipment and store neatly.
Check condition of roof, gutters and downspouts and make necessary repairs.
Repair loose siding.
Check for and repair cracks in driveway, steps and walkways.
Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door.
Replace cracked windows and torn screens.
Make sure that doorbell and front lights are in working condition.
In winter, keep driveway and walkways free of snow and ice.
Depending on the season, brighten up your front entrance with a few potted plants, evergreens or a festive wreath. |
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 To continue the great first impression that your home's exterior has given the prospective buyer take an inspection of your home's interior as a pontential buyer would. Make your home look as spacious as possible by removing any excess or large furniture and clutter. Do not take up space in your attic or basement with these items, put them in storage or hold a garage sale.
Use these tips to make sure your home is ready to show: |
Give every room a good cleaning and remove all clutter from table tops, dressers, walls and closets.
Keep the house clean while it is on the market. Consider hiring a professional cleaning company if you are busy.
Repair cracked or damaged walls, wallpaper and tiles.
Repaint soiled walls or walls with strong colors or bold patterns. Use neutral shades when repainting. These colors will appeal to a wider range of buyers.
Clean or replace worn carpets and floors. Use the same neutral shades when replacing carpets and linoleum.
Check for leaks and signs of dampness in the attic and basement.
Replace broken or craked windows, moldings and other woodwork.
Inspect and repair plumbing, heating, cooling, alarm and central vac systems.
Repair dripping faucets and showerheads.
Tighten stair bannisters and clear steps of clutter.
Check that all lightbulbs are in working condition.
Change discolored or cracked swithplates.
Eliminate all bad orders. Consider burning a fire in the fireplace or baking cookies just before the house is to be shown. Use a basket of potpourri in the bathrooms and bedrooms.
Make sure that all drapes and window treatments look fresh and are dust free.
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 Most home buyers want to make their personal imporvements so it is not necessary to make any major improvements on your home in order to get it ready For Sale. Think of it as selling your home's potential. Below are a few more tips that will help would be buyers appreciate your home's potential.
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Turn the television off. Consider playing soft music.
Send children and pets outdoors to avoid unwanted confusion. This will allow potential buyer's to focus their attention on your home's features.
Make sure there is adequate lighting. During the day, keep drapes open. In the evening or on darker days, keep plenty of lights on, especially in the entry way.
Do not leave any dishes in the sink.
Do not leave laundry in the laundry room.
Consider using fresh flowers in various rooms. This will brighten up rooms and leave a nice fresh scent.
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