Preparations for Sellers
- First impressions are lasting. The front door greets the prospect – make sure it is fresh and clean. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged, and the yard free of refuse. In winter, be sure snow and ice are removed from walkways and steps.
- Decorate for a quick sale. Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce appeal. Why try to tell a prospect how your home COULD look, when you can show by redecorating? Neutral colors fit with any buyer’s color scheme, and a new touch of paint will often result in a quick, profitable sale.
- Let the daylight shine in! Open draperies and curtains and let the prospect see how cheerful your home can be (dark rooms do not appeal).
- Fix that faucet! Dripping water discolors 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. (When prospects see things that need attention, they begin to worry about things they can’t see.)
- From top to bottom. Display the full value of your attic, basement and other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles.
- Safety first. Keep stairways clear. Avoid a cluttered appearance and possible injuries.
- Make closets look bigger. Neat, well-ordered closets show that the space is ample.
- Bathrooms help sell homes. Check and repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Make this room sparkle.
- Arrange bedrooms neatly. Remove excess furniture. Use attractive bedspreads and freshly laundered curtains.
- Can you see the light? Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel a flowing warmth when you turn on lights for an evening presentation.
- Clean, fresh, floor coverings. It isn’t uncommon to either clean or replace all carpeting and other floor covering to maximize interior appeal.