Preparing Your Property for Sale

Preparation for showings

• First impressions are lasting! The front door greets the prospective buyer. Make sure it is fresh, clean and paint the trim.
• Keep lawn trimmed and edged, and the yard free of debris. Re-seed the lawn and fertilize if necessary, weed the gardens and add mulch. Deep green grass makes a lasting impression. In winter, be sure snow and ice is removed from walks and steps.
• Decorate for a quick sale. Faded walls and worn out woodwork reduce appeal. Why try to tell the prospective buyers how your home could look, when you can show them by redecorating. This will result in a quicker sale at a higher price.
• Let the sun shine in. Open draperies and curtains and let the prospective buyer see how bright and cheerful your home can be. (Dark rooms are not appealing).
• Do the windows and window screens work well and look good.
• Are the appliances operating properly?
• Make sure the appliances are sparkling and free of “clutter”.
• Fix the faucet! Dripping water discolours sinks and suggests faulty plumbing.
• Repairs can make a big difference. Loose knobs, sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers and other minor flaws detract from home value. Have them fixed.
• From top to bottom. Display the full value of your attic, basement and other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles. Brighten dark, dull basements by painting walls and adding brighter light bulbs.
• Safety first. Keep stairways clear. Avoid cluttered appearances and potential injuries.
• Pack away excess linens and clothing to make closets look bigger. Neat, organized closets show the space is ample.
• Bathrooms help sell homes. Check and repair grout in bathtubs and showers. Make this room sparkle. Don’t let the handy man add gobs of caulking when grout is what you need.
• Arrange bedrooms neatly. Remove excess furniture. Use attractive and fresh bedspreads and window coverings.
• A well lit house is a welcoming house. Attract potential buyers by making sure all outdoors lights are on and shining bright for evening showings.