You want the first impression of your home to be a favourable one. A small investment in time and money will give your home an edge over other listings in the area when the time comes to show it to a prospective buyer. Here are some suggestions that will help you to get top market value:
General Maintenance
- Oil squeaky doors
- Tighten doorknobs
- Replace burned out lights
- Clean and repair windows
- Touch up chipped paint
- Repair cracked plaster
- Repair leaking taps and toilets
Curb Appeal
- Cut lawns
- Trim shrubs and lawns
- Weed and edge gardens
- Pick up any litter
- Clear walk and driveway of leaves
- Repair gutters and eaves
- Touch up exterior paint
Spic and Span
- Shampoo carpets
- Clean washer, dryer, and tubs
- Clean furnace
- Clean fridge and stove
- Clean and freshen bathrooms
The Buying Atmosphere
- Be absent during showings
- Turn on all lights
- Light fireplace
- Open drapes in the day time
- Play quiet background music
- Keep pets outdoors
The First Impression
- Clean and tidy entrance
- Functional doorbell
- Polish door hardware
- Paint doors, railings, etc. as necessary
The Spacious Look
- Clear stairs and halls
- Store excess furniture
- Clear counters and stove
- Make closets neat and tidy