HOMESELLING HINTS

FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE LASTING:

1)    The first impression (curb appeal) is vital. Your lawn should be trimmed, walkways swept, the front door clean and clear with a doorbell that works, flower beds cultivated and shrubs trimmed.

2)    Consider a quick coat of exterior paint if there is any peeling or cracking. 

DECORATING FOR A QUICKER SALE:

3)    A minor investment in paint or wall paper will pay you dividends in the form of a better price. Unless the interior of the house is completely run down and in bad repair, major decorating will not add to the price you can get, but it makes your home more salable.

4)    Be critical, remember, others will be as they walk through the house.

DON'T BE A DRIP:

5)    Fix leaky faucets; dripping water suggests faulty or worn out plumbing. (major repair bills) Discolored, rust stained sinks are also warning signs; they should be properly cleaned and sparkling.

6)    Make sure the drains are running freely and water isn't backing up. That is also a warning sign that there could be some major problems with the plumbing.

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS SELL HOUSES:

7)    Give special attention to the kitchen and bathroom; they sell more homes than any other rooms do.

8)    Make bathrooms sparkle, clean stained sinks and bowls, repair and damaged or discolored calking around tubs and showers.

9)    Fix any leaking drains and dripping faucets.

LITTLE THINGS MEAN A LOT:

10)   Loose doorknobs or cabinets pulls, sticking doors and drawers, wobbly hinges, stuck windows are all negative factors. Take a few minutes to check and repair all these seemingly minor flaws.

LET THE SUN SHINE IN:

11)   Open blinds and curtains. Dark and dreary rooms do not appeal to most home buying prospects.

12)   Windows should be sparkling clean.

TOP TO BOTTOM:

13)   Let prospects see the full value of your basement, attic, garage and closets by removing junk and cartons. Rent a short term storage space if necessary.

14)   Keep all rooms clean, bright and neatly arranged. Turn on lights and raise shades midway up or all the way up.

15) Arrange furniture in a way that will make your rooms look more spacious.

16)   Arrange porch and patio furniture attractively.

17)   Depending on the season, light a fire in the fireplace.

SAFETY FIRST:

18)   Keep stairways and corridors clear. Clutter is unattractive and causes accidents.

    This should create a setting that suggests relaxed family enjoyment. At the same time, you will need to be ready for appointments to show the house in short notice. Your cooperation enables the real estate salesperson to serve you well. Home seekers on a tight schedule or out of town buyers usually are genuinely interested in buying and are more likely to make an offer than someone who will adjust his schedule to your convenience.