When getting your home ready to sell, first impressions count with buyers. You only have one chance and it starts with what often referred to as “curb appeal”. This can increase your chances of getting quality offers more quickly, and getting top dollar for your home. Here are some ways to create curb appeal, and some details that matter more than you may expect:
At the Front Door
- Clean porch and foyer
- Ensure doorbell works
- Repair door or screen if necessary
- Fresh paint or varnish front door
- Repair door locks and key access
Exterior Appearance
- Keep lawns cut
- Trim hedges and shrubs
- Weed and edge gardens
- Clear driveway and clean up oil spills
- Clean out garage
- Touch up paint
- Add plants, flowers, or update landscaping
- Financial implications
Maintenance
- Repair leaking taps and toilets
- Clean furnace and filters
- Tighten doorknobs and latches
- Repair cracked plaster
- Touch up paint
- Clean and repair windows
- Repair seals around tubs and basins
- Replace defective light bulbs
- Oil squeaking doors
- Repair squeaking floorboards
- Neutralize walls – paint colors should be neutral and inviting
Organization
- Create space
- Clear halls and stairs of clutter
- Store surplus furniture
- Clear kitchen counter and stovetop
- Clear closets of unnecessary clothing
- Remove empty boxes and containers
Squeaky Clean
- Clean and freshen bathrooms
- Clean fridge and stove (in and out)
- Clean around heating vents
- Clean washer and dryer
- Clean carpets, drapes and window blinds
Create a Buying Mood
- Turn on lights
- Turn on air conditioner/heater
- Open the drapes
- Light the fireplace
- Put Fresh Flowers Out
- Remove Personal Items (family photos)
