• Street – Make sure the street in front of your home is litter or debris-free.
• Sidewalk and Front Walkway – Sweep your side walk and remove any weeds that may be growing between the cracks.
• Fence – A fresh coat of paint or stain gives homes a crisp, newer look.
• Mailbox/Light Fixtures – Paint your old mail box and replace or clean dirty or worn out outdoor lamps to show the prospective buyers that you care about the little details.
• Landscaping – For little cost and time and a big impact, trim your bushes. A lawn should also look healthy, mowed and trimmed. If you have spots beyond hope, a little sod can help restore the look of your lawn.
• Driveway –If you park a car in the driveway, a well-maintained automobile will make a statement about the pride you take in your property. Park it elsewhere if not in good condition. Make sure the driveway is clean and if necessary, reseal it to improve it’s appearance.
• Paint – A fresh coat of exterior paint can be one of the best investments you can make to increase the value of your property. If you can’t spend the money to paint the entire house, consider doing just the trim and shutters if applicable.
• Siding – If you have vinyl or aluminum siding, have a cleaning service wash or repaint it with products designed for these materials.
• Windows – Replace any cracked or broken glass. Make sure the windows are clean! Install window boxes with bright flowers. Apply touch-up paint where needed.
• Roof – Replace any broken or missing shingles or tiles. Repair flashing where needed. Paint eaves and fascia boards. If the roof is old and needs replaced, consider having this done before you show the house.
• Doorway – The doorway is the focal point of your house. Repaint the door. Apply new hardware and/or a brass kick plate. Replace house numbers if worn. Put a flower pot alongside the door.

• Light - Keep windows clean.
  • Use mirrors to magnify the feeling of light and space.
  • Use track lights to create a high-tech look.
  • Use light wall colors.
  • Open drapes and blinds and turn all the lights on prior to showings.
• Color - Keep colors neutral and light.
  • White, beige and gray are the most popular exterior colors.
  • Shades of white, off-white and light pastels are smart interior colors.
  • Avoid highly patterned wallpaper when possible.
  • Try to limit bright colors to accents like fresh flowers, towels and area rugs and shower curtains.
• Sound - Peace and quiet is an important consideration for many buyers.
  • Avoid barking dogs and noisy children if possible.
  • Don't run the dishwasher before showings
  • Make sure there are no sounds of mechanical problems like banging pipes or faulty appliances.
  • Light, classical music can be an effective tool in creating a pleasing atmosphere.
• Smell - Smell as more impact than you might expect. Some people are very sensitive to smells.
  • The smell of newness is positive. Apply a fresh coat of polyurethane to nature wood or latex paint to walls.
  • The smell of cleanliness if important. Lemon oil or lemon wax can help create a lasting scent of freshness. Fresh flowers are also effective.
  • Sweeten the refrigerator with a box of baking soda.
  • Avoid smoking, pet odors, cooking foods rich in heavy spices.

For more free tips on preparing a home for sale or if you want to talk with an interior decorator or professional home stager, please email us and include your mailing address.

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