Tips on Presenting Your Home for Sale

by Joyce Hedgepath 

When selling a home, first impressions are important. A home that is clutter-free, organized, clean and spacious-looking is the first to sell, at the best price. Your real estate agent will have lots of tips for you. Here's a list to get you started.

Look carefully at the EXTERIOR. Is the landscaping neat and pruned? Are weeds pulled and fallen leaves raked? Have you sodded bare lawn spots? Are there colorful plants or flowers near the front door and porch area? Are the walkways, steps and driveway free from obstacles? Are outdoor toys, hoses, and gardening equipment removed? Is your "welcome" mat actually welcoming? Are windows clear and clean? Have exterior repairs been made (gutters, roof, siding, fireplace, etc.)? Does the paint look fresh and is the caulking solid? Is firewood neatly stacked? Does the porch or fencing need repairs or paint? Has all rust been removed?

What about the INTERIOR? Have you discarded or given away items you no longer want or need (attic, basement, and garage included)? Are the rooms and floors clutter-free and clean? Are the curtains and window treatments fresh and unsoiled? Are books, clothes and other possessions neatly organized on shelves and in cabinets? Are closets organized with breathing space? Is the garage also orderly with clean walls and flooring? Have some of the kitchen countertop appliances been removed to give a spacious look? Is there enough lighting in all the rooms, either from lamps, skylights or windows? Are the painted walls clean and fresh-looking -- preferably in a neutral color? Has wallpaper that is torn or does not properly adhere to the wall been repaired or replaced? Are appliances clean, inside and out, and in working order with warranty and repair information available? Have loose doorknobs, cabinet or closet pulls, and sticking doors been repaired? Have necessary repairs been made to the floor, ceiling or walls, plumbing, windows, doors, etc.? Are doors and floors squeak-free? Has mold or mildew been removed? Do all smoke and burglar alarms function properly?

And now for the STAGING: Are furnishings well-placed and not crowded, with areas well-defined? Have excess belongings and furniture been given away, sold or placed in storage? Are the beds made and pets away from home during its showing? Is there a clean, fresh or pleasing scent to your home? Is the fireplace clean, with attractive logs on display? Are there fresh flowers and plants in the home? Is the entryway especially inviting? Is artwork well placed? Have magnets and notes been removed from the refrigerator and other areas decluttered? Have you noted and/or tagged any items that will not convey (e.g., appliances, plants, chandeliers)? Have the trash cans, recycling bins and ash trays been emptied? Is the exterior and interior well lighted?

Let Back To Order help you get your home ready to sell -- at the best price!