Making a good first impression when looks at your home is very important.  A small investment in time and money will give your home an edge over other listings in the area.  The following are some suggestions which will help you get top marketing value for your home.

General Exterior

• Remove any clutter
• Repair driveway
• Top seed, re-seed lawn, mow regularly
• Weed and mulch flow beds
• Clear eaves and down spouts
• Check the general condition of your roof
• Replace old caulking

General Interior

• Check stairs for loose boards, ripped carpeting
• Repair damaged walls
• Ensure all doors and knobs are in good working order
• Open and close all windows, fogging between windows indicates the seal is broken and the unit needs to be replaced

Living Rooms, Halls, Family Room, Bedrooms & Den

• De-clutter
• Keep furniture to a minimum
• Ensure traffic can flow in or through rooms unimpeded
• Remove overflowing books, magazines and knick-knacks
• Ensure closets look spacious
• Remember to remove or lock away valuables
• Shampoo carpets
• Replace all burnt out light bulbs

Kitchens & Bathrooms

• Fix dripping faucets or trickling toilets, replace older toilets with new
• Clean mirrors, light switches plates and cupboard handles (replace if broken or loose)
• If you have ceramic tiles, ensure grouting is intact and clean

Basement

• The condition of the foundation and main structure in the basement is critical to the fitness of any house. Be sure to inspect for any dampness, mould, cracks, crumbling motor or concrete and rotting wood. If any of these problems are present, do further research to find the causes and the remedies
• If your basement is damp or musty, install a dehumidifier
• Basement should be organized and clutter free
• Change the filters in the furnace and have it cleaned
• Ensure pet litter boxes are clean

Garage

• Get rid of broken tools, old car parts, empty paint cans and other useless items which accumulate in garages
• Remove oil stains

When It’s Show Time!

Once you’ve gone through your home and have it ready to sell you’ll be ready for showings.  The following is a list of recommendations to help your home look great for any showings.

• Open all drapes and turn on lights to make the house bright
• Air out the house to get rid of cooking, pet odours, etc.
• Fresh flowers are always nice
• Pick up clutter, empty garbage and recycling
• Remove pets
• Set thermostat to a comfortable temperature
• Display photos of your home in the summer to show landscaping
• Leave out heating and hydro bills
• If on septic system or well, leave out inspection and maintenance information

If you’re thinking about selling your home and would like more information on preparing your home or to receive a Free Home Evaluation please contact me.