CHECK LIST FOR SELLING YOUR HOME

You only get one first impression, and it's the first impression that really counts. When a potential buyer surveys your home, they know within minutes if they like it or not. All of this usually takes place before they get through the front door. Outlined below are proven ways that you can help your home sell quicker and perhaps for a better price. It is in your best interest to make the minor changes. Your real estate agent can bring in the prospective buyers, but the "sale ability" of your home is your responsibility. Here are some helpful hints.

EXTERIOR

The condition of your home's exterior is the most important when it comes to buyer appeal. Touching-up the surface, doors, window frames, etc. will be a major improvement Painting can, of course, be very expensive. Make only the changes, which will give you the most return for your money.

If your lawn shows no signs of life, a little fertilizer and some water will do wonders for its color. Now all it needs is a trim.

Any overgrown shrubbery should be cut back to show as much of the exterior as possible.

A low cost investment in seasonal flowers or ground cover will add a personal touch.

Inspect the roof for necessary repairs and any visible broken shingles or tiles.

Cracks in the driveway and sidewalks can easily be repaired with ready-mix cement. For excessive stains, there are easy to use cleaning agents at your home repair store.

Neighboring fences should also be mended and painted if time permits.

If the street sweeper does not come every week, make sure the area in front of your curb and driveway are clear of debris. Wash it down with the hose.

All of these suggestions may also apply to your back yard or child's play area.

LIVING AREA

Repair any cracks, holes or writing on walls and touch-up paint. Avoid repainting the entire house unless current colors are very loud or offbeat. White or light pastels are the easiest for new homeowners to work with.

Stucco that has water stains can be repaired using a mild bleaching agent.

Carpet stains should be spot cleaned. If the carpet is too heavily soiled, cleaners can be rented inexpensively at your local grocery or home repair store.

The day your home is being shown, the carpeting should be vacuumed throughout the house.

Doors- should be cleaned and touched up as well. This applies to screen doors also. Excessively torn screen can be removed and replaced. A whole new door is not necessary.

If you have a fireplace, make sure all tile is in good condition, screen is in good shape, and the hearth is clean.

Lightly clean living areas just prior to the open house.

A few colorful plants will help liven and add color.

KITCHEN

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house. Keep the counters clean and clear of appliances. An open appearance with sunlight and green plants here and there will make the room a focal point.

Never leave any dirty dishes in the sink. All appliances should be clean and neatly organized.

Clean and wax kitchen floor. If the floor looks old and dull, replace either partial or all of the flooring.

Use bright colored plants and flowers to keep the kitchen cheerful and spirited.

BATHROOM

All bathroom appliances should be thoroughly cleaned.

Remove stains from sinks, toilets and bathtubs.

Repair or replace leaky faucets.

Unclog and sanitize drains to remove odors.

Clean mirrors.

Fresh towels should be in the bathrooms at all times.

GARAGE, BASEMENT, & ATTIC

Have a garage sale and dispose of any unwanted items. Other family heirlooms that you will take with you should be boxed up until you move.

Stains can be removed from the garage floor; degreasers are available at your local home repair store.

Remove cobwebs.

If basement or attic is a functioning part of the house, make sure the room is clean and in good repair.

THE DAY OF YOUR OPEN HOUSE

Dust and vacuum the whole house thoroughly. Open all drapes and blinds to let in as much light as possible. Turn on lamps to emphasize particular areas of the house.

If you are planning to move around the same time you are selling your home, try and arrange your showing when the furniture is still in the house.

Any household or children’s items should be stored away. This includes toys outside, bikes, skateboards, etc.

On the actual day of the showing all stereos and TVs should be off.

If possible, your family might consider spending the day away from the house, especially if you have small children. If this is not possible, keep children quiet. Also, try to keep pets in an area that is away from the highlights of your home.

Your broker may request a coffee service. If not, feel free to suggest this.

Want another idea? Try baking chocolate chip cookies or brownies. A pleasant aroma means home to many people.

Once the open house begins, let your broker do the job. Do not try to assist unless a prospective buyer has a specific question.

If you are trying to sell any of your household items, the open house is not a good time to bring this up, unless you are asked. Remember to keep your valuables in a safe spot.

Should a buyer stop by when you are not having an open house, refer all inquiries to your broker. Feel free to answer questions the buyer might have, but again, refer as much as possible to your broker, as he/she will be able to answer in the most positive manner.