Preparing Your Home For Showing
Once you've decided to sell your home,
there are a number of things which you can do to help get the best
possible price in the shortest amount of time.
Remember that first impressions count.
You should do everything you can to make the first impression a
positive one. People who consider buying your home will be as
critical as you are in searching for a new home. |
 EXTERIOR
Since the exterior of your
home will be the first thing a prospective buyer sees, it is very
important to create a good first impression. |
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- Keep the lawn trimmed and edged.
Weed and cultivate flower gardens. Trim shrubs and eliminate dead
trees or branches. Pick up any debris, toys, and lawn equipment.
- Repair any fences and gates. Give
them a fresh coat of paint, if necessary.
- Is the exterior wall painted, the
roof in good repair, as well as gutters and downspouts?
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- Wash down driveways and sidewalks.
Check for cracking and crumbling.
- Replace any cracked windows and torn
screens.
- The entrance should be clean and in
good repair. The doorbell and front door must be in good working
condition.
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INTERIORS
Start with a full
housecleaning from top to bottom. Don't let dirt and 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. |
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- 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.
- Arrange furniture to make each room
appear more spacious and attractive. If a piece of furniture is
badly worn, store it temporarily in the attic or at your neighbors.
- Wash windows and sills until
sparkling clean. Curtains and drapes should be freshly laundered.
- Shampoo rugs and carpets. Floors
should be waxed.
- Repair loose doorknobs, sticking
doors and windows, and warped drawers.
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- Fix leaky faucets and eliminate
water discoloration in sinks.
- Tighten loose stair banisters, and
be sure steps are free of objects.
- Light fixtures should be in good
repair. Replace discolored or cracked switchplates.
- Clean out closets to display their
roominess.
- Be sure clothes are hung neatly and
shoes and other objects tidily arranged.
- Bathrooms should appear neat with
spreads and curtains.
- Clean and tidy the kitchen,
including cupboards, stove, and oven.
- Clean and organize the basement,
attic, and garage.
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SHOWING THE HOUSE |
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- The television and radio should be
turned off. Let the salesperson and buyer talk, free of
distractions.
- Send children and pets outdoors to
play. This will eliminate confusion and keep the prospect's
attention focused on your home.
- 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.
- If your home has been closed up or
you have pets, use an air freshener before a potential buyer
arrives.
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- Be sure the kitchen sink is free of
dishes and rooms are uncluttered.
- If you must remain at home, be
courteous but don't force conversation with the potential buyer.
They want to inspect your house - not pay a social call. For best
results vacate during showing.
- Never apologize for the appearance
of your home. After all, it has been lived in. Let the trained
salesperson answer any questions.
- The salesperson knows the buyer's
requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when
you don't tag along. You will be called if needed..
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