- Create front yard "curb appeal". Make sure the front yard appears clean and tidy and has nice contrast of color if possible. Think green grass and fresh beauty bark along with a potted planter or two of seasonal flowers. Remove or prune any shrubs and trees so there is no contact with the siding or decks.
- Walk through your house with "buyers eyes" (or have someone do this for you). Look for ways to capitalize on a warm and inviting feeling. Plan to remove anything that may look old, run down or cluttered. Also, have someone perform the "sniff test" to detect areas that may have a smell detectable by sensative noses. Try to remove the smells rather than cover them up.
- Your front entryway is the first place people stop long enough to notice small details. Make sure your front door and entry are spotless. No peeling paint, spider webs or gifts left by the cat...
- Create space; begin to pack away things you can live without. Especially displays or decorations of a personal nature (family photo collages, collectables etc). Place high wattage light bulbs in every fixture. Considering storing away extra chairs/tables/furnishings so each room has a spacious feel.
- Kitchens and baths are the most scrutinized rooms. Make these rooms shine by removing clutter (especially on countertops), caulking around sinks and tubs, cleaning/polishing fixtures and fixing any dripping faucets.
- Walls and Floors: Touch up any obvious wall damage or stains. Repaint any rooms that are an unsightly or overly custom color. (Portray your home as a nuetral slate for personalization rather than a highly customized or personalized feel that may not be a fit with all prospective buyers.) Clean carpets and hard flooring.
- Buyers will be interested in storage space throughout your home. Make sure your closets are clean, organized and clutter free. Pack away clothing and other items currently not in use to give these areas a spacious feel. It's OK to store boxes and extra furnishings neatly in your garage.
A note about other improvements; before you spend $$$ on things not mentioned above, ask your friendly neighborhood realtor if those improvements will be impacting enough to warrant the cost. rebecca@myplacetocallhome.com
