Buyers Information

Tips for Showing Your Home

• Take an objective look at your entire home and make a comprehensive list of what needs improvement as if you were seeing the space for the first time. Don’t worry about being too critical.
• First Impressions are lasting. The front door greets prospects. Make sure it’s fresh, clean, scrubbed looking and that the doorbell works.
• Benefits of a polished look. Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce appeal. Why try to tell prospects how your home could look, when you can show them by redecoration? A quicker sale at a higher price will result. Investment in fresh paint job in the kitchen will pay dividends. Clean all light fixtures, windows, windowsills, draperies and carpers for a fresh look.
• Clean all kitchen appliances, as well as remove all countertops appliances and clutter. Clean and rearrange pantry and cupboards for a neat and organized appearance.
• Remove all clutter, personal items, and most decorator items from surfaces throughout the house. If bookshelves are overflowing, pack away about a third of the books and replace the space with a houseplant or two.
• Consider putting the TV away. It’s definitely not the most attractive piece of furniture.
• Let the sun shine in. Open draperies and curtains and let prospects see how cheerful your home can be. Dark rooms are not appealing to buyers.
• Fix the faucet! Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing.
• Repairs can make a big difference. Loose knobs, sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers and minor flaws detract from home value. Have them fixed.
• Safety First. Keep stairways clear. Avoid cluttered appearance and possible injuries.
• Make closets look bigger. Neat, well-ordered closets show that the space is simple, you might consider putting is shelves as well.
• Bathrooms help sell homes. Check and repair caulking in bathtubs and showers, make this room sparkle!
• Arrange bedrooms neatly. Remove excess furniture. Use attractive bedspreads and freshly laundered curtains.
• For the Patio: hide trash cans, tools, bicycles and other large objects from view. Set out lawn chairs, grills and other items to help the buyer visualize entertaining and enjoying themselves.
• Illumination is like a welcome sign. Potential buyers will feel a growing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening inspection. Add higher wattage light bulbs to bathrooms and kitchens to make them look brighter.
• Silence is golden. Turn off blaring radio or television and stereo. Let the salesperson and buyer talk, free of disturbances. Also remember that inspectors and potential buyers want to inspect your home – not pay a social call. It is best to not be present for open houses, showings or inspections.
• The salesperson knows the buyers’ requirements and can better emphasize the feature of your home when you don’t tag along. We will contact you as soon as you’re needed.
• Why put the cart before the horse? Trying to dispose of furniture and furnishings to potential buyers before they have purchased the house often loses a sale.
• Let your agent discuss price, terms, possessions and other factors with the customer. Real Estate professionals are eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.
• Use your Real Estate Agent. Refer any prospective customers to your agent and let them show your home.
• Last but not least! Set our fresh flowers, candy and other items to create a “homey” and welcoming feeling.

Next: Moving Checklist