Fully preparing your home for sale can make considerable difference in the time it takes to sell it and the price that you get. You can help eliminate buyer objections before they arise by making necessary repairs and improvements. Some can be done once and forgotten. Others should be checked before every showing. There is never a time when “everything in its place” is more important.

Outdoors
__ Spruce up gardens, trim shrubbery, remove or replace dead plants.
__ Yard and patio should be neat; outdoor furniture, clean and in good shape. If not, remove it.
__ Clean or paint your front door – remember first impressions last longest!
__ Manicure your front yard, driveway and entry. Grass should be mowed and rock areas should have no bare spots.

__ Check drainage around your foundation. This will be scrutinized during a home inspection.

Exterior of Home
__ Check that house numbers, mailbox, and exterior lighting are all in straightened and in good repair.
__ Touch up paint as needed.
__ Repair loose trim, drainpipes and fencing.
__ Clean stains; clean windows and screens.

Garage
__ Remove clutter; tidy up shelves and cabinets.
__ Hose-down floor so it looks clean and spacious.

Living Areas
__ Apply fresh paint as needed…brighten interior with neutral-toned paint.
__ Clean draperies and carpets.
__ Replace burned out light bulbs.
__ Clean fireplace, remove smoke stains from firewall and mantle.

Kitchen
__ Sinks, appliances and counter tops should sparkle without any clutter.
__ Make sure the floor shines.
__ Clean oven, range and other appliances.
__ Clean tile and grout; replace cracked tiles if necessary.

Bathrooms
__ Clean mirrors, glass, chrome and surfaces.
__ Replace shower curtain if necessary.
__ Fix any faucet drips or leaks.
__ Clean tile, grout and caulking; replace if necessary.

Closets and Cabinets
__ Doors and drawers should open and close easily.
__ Remove clutter; tidy up shelves and racks.
__ Shoes and clothes should be neatly arranged.

Overall
__ Check the basics around the house. Make the beds, straighten     curtains and blinds, collect toys in a bin. It takes just a minute to check all doors, windows and cabinets to be sure they’re not sticking, squeaking or loose.
__ Clean your furnace & water heater, so buyers know they are looking at a house that has been well maintained.

More resources for Home Sellers

• Not Your Daddy’s Home Selling Tips
• Order a Market Analysis Online
• What Can I Do for You?
• Where to Start?
• Seller Disclosure 101
  
• Sellers Frequently Asked Questions
• The Sale Process
• Who Pays for What?
• My Guarantee as Your Agent