-
First
impressions are lasting. The front
door greets the prospect so make sure it's
clean. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged
to enhance curb appeal.
-
Decorate for a
quick sale. Faded walls and worn
woodwork reduce appeal. A fresh coat
of paint is often necessary.
-
Let the sunshine
in. Open draperies and blinds to show
the prospect how bright and cheerful your
house can be.
-
Fix the faucet.
Dripping water suggests faulty plumbing.
-
Repairs can make
a big difference. Loose doorknobs,
sticking doors and windows and other minor
flaws distract from your home's value.
Have them fixed. When prospects see
things that need attention, they worry about
what they can't see.
-
Show from top to
bottom. Display the full value of your
attic, basement and other utility space by
removing all unnecessary articles.
-
Safety first.
Keep stairways clear. Avoid a
cluttered appearance and possible injuries.
-
Make closets
look larger by having them neat and well
organized.
-
Bathrooms help
sell homes. Check and repair caulking.
Make the room sparkle.
-
Arrange bedrooms
neatly. remove excess furniture and
use attractive bedspreads and curtains.
-
Can you see the
light? The potential buyer will notice
the warmth when the lights are turned on for
an evening showing. Check bulb
wattage to see if you need to brighten up
some areas.
-
Turn off radios
and TV's when the house is being shown.
Soft background music may be appropriate but
should not be a distraction.
-
Pets underfoot?
Keep them out of the way - outside if
possible.
-
Three's a crowd.
Let your realtor show the property.
Buyers so not feel comfortable looking at
your home when you are present. If you
want to introduce yourself to them and then
take a walk around the block, they will feel
more like talking to the realtor and asking
questions.
-
Be it ever so
humble, never apologize for the appearance
of your home. After all, it is lived
in. Most buyers understand that.
Do your best to keep it neat and clean.
-
Stay in the
background and let the agent emphasize the
features of the home.
-
Why put the cart
before the horse? Trying to dispose of
furniture and furnishings to a potential
buyer who has not made an offer could lose
the sale.
-
A word to the
wise. Let your realtor discuss price,
terms, possession and other factors with the
customer. They are qualified to
negotiate a favorable conclusion.
