Before you put your home on the market there are things that you should do to prepare your home for sale. The first impression is always super important, so make sure that your home is looking clean and spiffy for all those potential buyers.

                The biggest part of preparing your home for sale is getting it clean. Girl clean, not guy clean. That means everything from floor to ceiling in every room. If you feel like you don’t have the time to do that you can always hire a cleaning company to handle it for you!

                The next biggest thing is to paint. You will be surprised in how much of a difference a fresh coat of paint makes. Don’t feel like it is necessary to paint everything again, but do paint any ugly or bright colors in rooms. As much as you might like the neon pink bedroom, potential buyers might not. Any chipped, or peeling window sills, siding, or trim should also be painted. It will look nice, and can prevent financeability issues.

                After that is to make repairs to whatever you can. Holes in walls or floors, missing trim, water damage in bathroom or kitchens. The list goes on and on for what could be fixed. Take a look around your home and pretend you are buying it for the first time. Ask yourself what repair issue would you not want to move into? If it is feasible, repair it.

                Finally, listen to your REALTOR®. Your REALTOR® knows the houses in your area. They are the best source for what needs to be fixed, and what will probably slide. But if there is any doubt, fix it. Better yet, get a professional to do it and keep the receipt.

 

Need a list? Here are some suggestions on things you can do to prepare your home for sale!

 

  • Mow, weed, trim and water your lawn regularly.
  • Repair and repaint any cracks in exterior plaster.
  • Paint or thoroughly wash the home exterior.
  • Paint your front door and mailbox.
  • Wash the windows so they are transparent.
  • Repair damaged screens and windows.
  • Repair any fence or gate.
  • Make sure your roof and gutters are in good shape.
  • Refresh patio by power washing.
  • Give wood decks a boost with a fresh coat of stain.
  • Sweep the walkway and driveway as needed.
  • Clean oil stains from your driveway and garage.
  • Remove extra vehicles from the driveway.
  • Make sure you can read your home address numbers.
  • Check locks on all doors to make sure they work like new.
  • Polish your door and entry hardware.
  • Make sure your doorbell is functional.
  • Place a new welcome mat at the door.
  • Remove distracting lawn ornaments.
  • Clean up after your pets on a daily basis.
  • Put tools in bins in the garage or shop.
  • Place lawn furniture and small tables in conversational groupings outside.
  • Hang miniature white lights in trees and around umbrellas to create a warm glow.

 

  • Repair missing grout and tiles.
  • Repair leaking taps and toilets.
  • Make sure all burners are working.
  • Check for leaky faucets and caulk sinks and tubs.
  • Clean ovens thoroughly.
  • Clean cook tops and exhaust fans.
  • Clean refrigerator – inside and out.
  • Wipe down insides of drawers and install dividers.
  • Deodorize garbage disposal, dishwasher and trash can.
  • Scrub and polish all sinks and tubs.
  • Make sure your mirrors and appliances shine.
  • Install new shelf and drawer liners.
  • Defrost freezers.
  • Inspect cabinets and clear countertops.
  • Tighten all handles and knobs.
  • Purchase a new shower curtain and liner as well as rugs.
  • Roll several new towels and place in a basket on the counter
  • Place seldom-used small appliances in cupboards.
  • Fill a large bowl with fresh fruit.

 

  • Paint walls a neutral color scheme (remember, white never fails).
  • Repair wall and ceiling cracks.
  • Make sure carpet is spotless and fresh smelling.
  • Wipe down all light fixtures so each room sparkles.
  • Ensure a clean, organized entryway for appeal.
  • Oil squeaky doors (don’t forget the closet doors).
  • Tighten doorknobs.
  • Clean draperies and blinds.
  • Make sure windows operate properly.
  • Clean around fireplaces and remove ashes
  • Organize closets.
  • Make sure laundry is clean, folded and put away.
  • Vacuum under beds.
  • Make sure all beds are made and rooms are neat and clean.
  • Wipe down the washer, dryer, furnace, water softener and other appliances.
  • Declutter!  Give your home a spacious look by clearing your excess furniture, nick-knacks and other personal items

 

Ready to list? Read our Home Selling Process guide or Meet with Us today!