Making a great first impression when the potential buyer arrives and enters the front door can be accomplished by a few simple to significant ways to maximize your home’s appeal.


Exterior

  • Keep the grass cut and remove all yard clutter, or if winter, keep sidewalks clear.
  • Weed the flower beds and trim shrubs.
  • Tighten and clean all door handles.
  • Clean windows inside and out.
  • Power wash and stain the deck.
  • Paint the front door.
  • Buy a new welcome mat.
  • Place potted flowers near the front door.


Interior

  • Evaluate the furniture in each room and remove anything that interrupts “the flow. Consider renting a storage unit to move items off-site.
  • Clean and organize cabinets, closets and bookshelves.
  • Shampoo carpets.
  • Remove excessive wall hangings and knick-knacks.
  • Make minor repairs (torn screens, sticking doors, cracked caulking).
  • Clean or paint walls.
  • Replace worn cabinet and door knobs.
  • Fix or replace discolored grout.
  • Replace broken tiles.


Special Details for Showings

  • Turn on all the lights.
  • Open all drapes, shades and blinds.
  • Keep pets kenneled or secured outdoors.
  • Buy new towels for bathrooms.
  • Light the fireplace.
  • Vacate the property while it is being shown.