Preparing Your House for Showing

 With buyers, first impressions count.  A small investment in time and money will give your house 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 the 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/drywall
  • Repair leaking faucets and toilets

Spic and Span

  • Shampoo carpets
  • Clean washer, dryer, and tubs
  • Clean furnace
  • Clean fridge and stove
  • Clean and freshen bathrooms

The First Impression

  • Clean and tidy entrance
  • Functional doorbell
  • Polish door hardware
  • Paint front door
  • Put out new “Welcome” mat

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

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
  • Make all beds

The Spacious Look

  • Clear stairs and halls
  • Remove excess furniture
  • Clear counters and stove
  • Make closets neat and tidy