Seller Advice

Preparing your home for sale gives you a major advantage over your competition. A little attention to important details can make a big difference in a potential Buyer's impression of your home. Our experience suggests that the following items are most critical.

Exterior

Lawn and Yard Your lawn and landscaping must appear well maintained. Grass should be cut, walks edged, hedges trimmed, leaves raked and gardens weeded and cultivated. Plant seasonal colorful flowers.

Driveways and Sidewalks Wash down driveways and sidewalks, check them for cracking and crumbling, and patch/seal as necessary. In winter months, be sure walks and driveways are clear of snow and ice.

Windows Clean windows inside and out will give your home a "bright" feeling.

Siding Make sure the exterior siding is in good condition. A fresh coat of paint or a power washing will enhance your home's "curb appeal."

Roof and Gutters Your roof, gutters and downspouts should be in good condition and free of leaves and debris.

Front Entrance A fresh coat of paint will go a long way toward enhancing your home's appearance. Potted flowers add a warm feeling. Always keep your entry way clean and swept.

Interior

Kitchen National studies show that the kitchen is the most influential area in a home. All appliances should be spotless. Your sink and counter tops should be clean and uncluttered. Flooring should be in good repair. A bowl of fresh fruit adds a nice touch.

Bathrooms Keep them spotless, fresh and dry. If necessary, repair caulking around the tub and grout between the tiles. Towels and rugs should be clean and neat. Scrub tile with mildew remover and grout cleaner. Mirrors and glass shower door should be sparkling clean. A plant adds a nice touch.

Bedrooms Keep them neat. Beds should be made and clothing put away. In children's rooms, it's helpful if walls are not overly cluttered.

Attic, Basement and Garage All are important considerations for the Buyer. Attempt to remove unnecessary and rarely-used items. Keep areas neatly arranged and well illuminated.

Walls and Woodwork Keep them clean and free from smudges. A new coat of paint will impress the Buyers and give your home a fresh smell.

Closets and Cabinets Storage spaces appear much larger when they are neat and well organized. If possible, remove rarely-used items and off-season clothing. Uncluttered and organized closets appear much larger.

Window Treatments Curtains and shades should be clean and left open. Buyers prefer a bright and airy feeling in a home.

Plumbing Be certain that all faucets, showers and toilets are not leaking.

Stairways Make sure that stairs are safe, uncluttered and in good repair. Tighten loose railings, if necessary.

Hardware Oil door hinges, tighten knobs and handles. Be certain doors, windows and drawers open freely and do not stick.

Furnace and Air Conditioners Keep units clean and well maintained. Remove dust and dirt from exterior of unit.

Lighting and Sound Bright cheerful lighting creates a positive environment. Replace burned out bulbs. During showings open the blinds and turn on lights. Turn off the TV, dishwasher, dryer and play soft background music.

Flooring Wood floors, carpet and tile should be clean and uncluttered.

Helpful Hints

Be sure you have feature sheets available for prospective Buyers. A survey of your property is also very helpful.

Think safety first: Remove and repair all items that could cause visitors to stumble or be hurt in any way.

Odors from pets, smoking or cooking can prevent a sale. Make sure your home looks and smells fresh.

Pets: Animals should be kept away from the premises during appointments or at least safely confined. People who avoid dogs, cats or other pets may not react well to them.

Evaluate your home for required repairs. Fix or replace broken appliances, windows, tiles, cabinet handles, etc. A fresh coat of paint will significantly enhance the eye appeal and value of your home.

An experienced and objective eye will assist greatly in your sale.
Contact Real Estate Consultants, L.L.C. so that we can evaluate your home through the Buyer's eye and discuss any recommendations. The time and money invested prior to listing your home will significantly enhance the value.

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