Preparing Your Home For Sale
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Add Curb Appeal
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Create Welcoming Living Spaces
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The exterior of your home forms the first impression a prospective buyer will have. Stand in front of your house and view it as though you were the buyer. Then, ask yourself the following questions: |
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Your house may have the practical requirements a potential buyer is looking for (location, price, style, amenities) but does it inspire an emotional connection? Here's how to let prospective buyers imagine themselves living in your home: |
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1. Is the yard mowed, weeded, trimmed, and watered?
2. Does the structure need painting or washing?
3. Do the locks work on the front door?
4. Does the paint need touching up on the front door?
5. Is there a new welcome mat on the front porch?
6. Can I read the house number clearly?
7. Are the windows clean - Inside and out?
8. Are there damaged windows or missing screens?
9. Are there extra vehicles in the driveway?
10. Are fences and gates in good condition?
11. Are the rain gutters and roof in good condition?
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1. Create a clean, organized entry
2. Remove clutter such as stray newspapers and magazines
3. Clean all light fixtures and replace dull light bulbs
4. Repair wall and ceiling cracks
5. Paint walls a neutral color (white never fails!)
6. Scrub, wax, or seal floors
7. Make sure carpeting is clean
8. Rearrange the furniture in the living room and family rooms to create a more open space
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Highlight The Kitchen And Bathroom
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Focus on Other Areas
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Prospective buyers tend to focus on two key areas: the kitchen and the bathroom. Attention to detail in these rooms can make a big difference: |
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Once you've reviewed the kitchen and bathroom areas, walk through your entire home: |
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1. Place a bowl of fresh fruit in the kitchen
2. Put seldom-used small appliances in cupboards
3. Inspect cabinets and clear countertops of clutter
4. Clean all mirrors and objects left on countertops
5. Fix leaky faucets and caulk sinks and tubs
6. Place soaps, bath oils, and thick towels in bathrooms
7. Scrub and polish all sinks and tubs
8. Purchase new shower curtains and rugs
9. Repair missing grout and tiles
10. Deodorize garbage disposer, dishwasher, and trash cans
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1. Vacuum under beds
2. Be sure the bed is made with decorative pillows and matching blankets
3. Place a scented candle on nightstands and scented paper or sachets in closets
4. Add a few books, art, and pottery to your entertainment center
5. Drape a textured throw over the corner of a sofa or chair
6. Wipe down the washer, dryer, furnace, water softener, and other appliances
7. Put tools in bins in the garage or workshop
8. Power wash the patio and give decks a new life with a coat of stain
9. Place lawn furniture in conversational groupings and add miniature lights on trees or shrubs
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