Seller Spruce Up Tips |
Categorized in: Seller Information
Tagged with: seller spruce up tips
WHAT DOES YOUR HOME LOOK LIKE THROUGH
THE EYES OF A BUYER?
This is an important question to ask yourself when preparing to sell your home. The following checklist will give you an idea of what should be done to your home so that it looks its best.
Outside
Invest in landscaping where it can be seen at first sight. A well manicured lawn, neatly clipped shrubbery and cleanly swept walks create a good first impression. Cut back over-grown shrubbery that looks scraggly or keeps light out of the house. Keep lawn closely cut, edged and free of weeds. Paint your house if necessary. This can do more for sales appeal than any other factor. If you decide against painting, at least consider painting front shutters and window frames. In winter, walks should be free of snow and ice. Inspect roof and gutters. Any missing shingles to replace? Repaint/wash front door and garage door. Doorbells and porch/outside lights must be in working order.
Living Areas
Have all plaster in top shape. Fix cracks, nail pops and visible seams in drywall. Check ceilings for leak stains. Fix the cause of the damage, repair and repaint. If painting and decorating, stick to conventional white and easy to work with neutrals. If you have a fireplace, clean it out and lay some logs in it to make it look inviting. Wash windows and replace any cracked or broker glass; make sure all windows open/close. Replace burned out light bulbs. Be sure every light switch works. Straighten up the closets, get rid of excess, store out of season clothes; closets look larger. Use room deodorizers to eliminate musty odors. Lubricate sticking or squeaking doors.
Kitchen
Most Important room in the house.Make it bright and attractive. If dull, paint cabinets and put up new curtains. Remove any appliances that you keep on your counters (toaster, coffee maker, can opener), remove canister sets and all knick-knacks. Clean counters make the room look larger. Leave a luscious aroma in the kitchen, i.e., vanilla, cinnamon-apple tea, etc.
Bathroom
Repair any dripping faucets. Replace old caulking around tubs, showers. Provide fresh, colorful towels. Keep sinks and mirrors shining. Remove all personal items (make-up, medication, etc.) from counters and sink tops. Use special cleaning products to remove all stains from toilets, tubs and sinks. Use of potpourri, flowers and tasteful deodorizers enhance your bathrooms.
Basement, Attic, Garage
Clean out attic, basement and garage and dispose of everything you are not going to move. Package everything you won't need until you are settled in your new home. Make sure there is plenty of light on the stairs to the basement. If your basement is dark and gloomy, paint ceilings and walls a light color. Vacuum the garage floor and stack items against the walls to make it appear larger.
