THE TOP WAYS OF PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SHOWING

If you’re deciding to sell your home, there are a number of things you can do when preparing your home for showing and get the best possible price in the shortest amount of time.

Remember that first impressions count. In addition, you should do everything you can to make the first impression a positive one. As a result, people buying your home will be as critical as you are in searching for a new home.

EXTERIOR CHECKLIST FOR HOME SHOWING

The outside of your home is the first thing that the prospective buyers sees; therefore, it is very important to create a good first impression.

1. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged. Weed and cultivate flower gardens. Trim shrubs and eliminate dead trees and branches. Pick up any debris, toys, or lawn equipment.
2. Repair fences and gates. Give them a fresh coat of paint if necessary.
3. Is the exterior well painted, the roof in good repair, as well as gutters and downspouts?
4. Wash down driveways and sidewalks. Check them for cracking and crumbling.
5. Replace any cracked windows and torn screens.
6. The entrance should be clean and in good repair. The doorbell and front light must be in good working condition.

INTERIOR CHECKLIST FOR HOME SHOWING

Start with a full housecleaning from top to bottom. Don’t let dirt clutter obscure your home’s good points. Discard unused and unnecessary items in storage areas and closets. Eliminating clutter will give your home a more spacious look.

1. Walls should be clean and free of smudges, fingerprints, and dents. Consider a fresh coat of paint if a good washing doesn’t do the trick. Inspect woodwork and wallpaper for problem areas.
2. Arrange furniture to make each room appear more spacious and attractive. If a piece of furniture is worn, store it temporarily in the attic or at your neighbors.
3. Wash windows and sills until sparkling clean. Curtains and drapes should be freshly laundered.
4. Shampoo rugs and carpets. Floors should be waxed.
5. Repair loose doorknobs, sticking doors and windows, and warped drawers.
6. Fix leaky faucets and eliminate water discoloration in sinks.
7. Tighten loose stair banisters, and be sure steps are free of objects.
8. Light fixtures should be in good repair. Replace cracked or discolored switchplates.
9. Clean out closets to display their roominess. Be sure clothes are hung neatly with shoes and other objects tidily arranged. Also, don’t overpack closets – ensure they’re spacious and remove unnecessary items.
10. Bathrooms should be sparkling. Repair caulking in tubs and showers.
11. Bedrooms should appear neat with attractive spread and curtains.
12. Clean and tidy kitchen, including cupboards, stove, and oven.
13. Clean and organize the basement, attic, and garage.

SHOWING THE HOUSE

1. The television and radio should be off. Let the salesperson and buyer talk, free of disturbances.
2. Send children and pets outdoors to play. This will eliminate confusion and keep the prospect’s attention focused on your home.
3. Leave drapes open for light and airiness. If it’s evening, all lights should be turned on to give the rooms a larger appearance and a cheerful effect.
4. If your home has been closed up or you have pets, use an air freshener before a potential buyer arrives.
5. Be sure the kitchen sink is free of dishes and the rooms are uncluttered.
6. Be courteous, but don’t force conversation with the buyer. They want to inspect your house, not pay a social call.
7. Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, it has been lived in. Let the trained salesperson answer any questions.
8. The salesperson knows the potential buyer’s requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when you don’t tag along. You will be called if needed.

Contact us for a personalized walk through to help prepare your house for the special first selling day!