John M. Realty

It’s always a good idea to spruce up the exterior and interior of your home before listing it for sale. But that doesn’t mean you have to undertake major and/or expensive projects.

Here are some suggestions for those of you either considering putting your home on the market or with your home already listed. These suggestions will help increase the perceived value of your home and make a great first impression. Not all the items on the list will apply to everyone, but any you do will help your home sell.

Exterior Appearance
Keep lawns cut
Trim hedges and shrubs
Weed and edge gardens
Clear driveway and clean up oil spills
Clean out garage
Power wash your home
Touch up paint
Plant colorful, inexpensive flowers – in pots if necessary

At the Front Door
Clean porch and foyer
Ensure door bell works
Repair any broken screens
Fresh paint or varnish the door.
Repair locks and key access

Create a Buying Mood
Make sure your home smells fresh and clean
Turn on lights
Turn on air conditioner/heat
Open drapes
Light the fireplace (gas)

Create Space
Clear halls and stairs of clutter
Clean basement of clutter
Store surplus furniture
Clear kitchen counters and stove top
Clear closets of unnecessary clothing and “stuff”
Remove empty boxes and containers
Put away personal photos so buyers can envision the house as theirs

Maintenance
Repair leaking taps and toilets
Clean furnace and filters
Tighten door knobs and latches, oil hinges
Repair cracked plaster
Apply a fresh coat of paint or touch up where necessary
Clean and repair windows
Repair seals around tubs and basins
Replace defective light bulbs
Repair squeaking floor boards

Squeaky Clean
Clean and freshen bathrooms
Clean fridge and stove (inside and out)
Clean around heating vents
Clean washer and dryer
Clean carpets, drapes and window blinds
Eliminate pet odors and stains.