Exterior and Curb Appeal
Experts say most buyers make their decision at first sight.
General Exterior
Prospective buyers will react well to signs you home has been meticulously maintained.
• Manicure landscaping: mow, edge and water lawn, trim hedges, weed and fertilize flowerbeds, and prune trees
• Keep driveway clean and free of parked cards, and keep the garage door closed
• Repair or replace loose or damaged shingles
• Minimize cracks or crumbling on walkways, walls or steps and keep them clean and free of obstruction like toys
• Items from RV’s to waste cans left out can contribute to a cluttered or busy appearance. Make sure that from the street your property appears clear
• Inspect appearance of interior window coverings from the curb
• Repair any peeling paint or loose caulking on windows or other areas
• Take steps to eliminate insect or rodent pests
• Pick up after your pets or neighborhood animals
Doorway
While agents work the lockbox for a key, buyers have idle time to notice details.
• Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door and frame
• Consider adding pots of flowering plants in the entryway if weather permits
• Eliminate cobwebs and room doorway area windows, porch light or decorative glass
Interior Appeal
Once inside, experts say most buyers are reaffirming their curbside decision
Clean, Clear, Light and Bright
• Give every room in the house a thorough cleaning and remove all clutter. Hiring a cleaning service may pay for itself by adding to a buyer’s perceived value of your home
• For a sleeker, more spacious look, consider placing furniture from crowed rooms in storage
• Clear kitchen counters of everything other than perhaps a few very pretty items. Ask yourself: In a model home, would a professional decorator put your choice of items out on the counter?
• Remember: closets will be opened. Keep closets, cupboards, and even your attic orderly and neat. Since you are anticipating a move anyway, consider holding a garage sale or boxing and storing unused belongings
• If necessary, repaint or clean/replace dingy, soiled or strongly –colored walls and window and floor coverings with a light, neutral shade. Bright rooms look bigger and neutral colors help buyers envision their own furnishings and décor
• Repair dripping faucets, burned out light bulbs or cracked windowpanes
• Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster, wallboard, wallpaper and tiles
Warm and Home Like
• Subtle scents of potpourri in bedrooms or baths and fresh baked cookies or cinnamon in the kitchen can make your home more inviting
• Keep an attractive set of towels in each bathroom to be brought out only for showings
