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Preparing & Presenting Your Home for Sale:

Purchasing a home is an emotional process for most buyers. We only have one chance to make that good first impression! Let’s ‘set the stage’ with some of these helpful tips.

Outdoor Area:

? Cut grass, trim edges, trim bushes and remove weeds
? Rake leaves and lay new bark chips
? Pack tools and fertilizer in shed or garage
? Plant pots around front porch and flowerbeds with seasonal color
? Tidy garage
? Sweep front door area and replace old doormat if needed
? Your front door adds to that first impression – scrub or repaint if necessary
? Pressure wash driveway, patios and decks

Indoor Area:

? Wash windows and clean/dust window coverings
? Clear away all clutter, trinkets and excess furniture
? Repair or replace all broken items ‘“ windows, fittings, hardware and leaky faucets
? Illumination is like a welcome sign. Replace bulbs and turn on the lights.
? If any decorating or painting is needed (especially in the kitchen), do it now!
? Thoroughly clean bathrooms and kitchens. Make these rooms sparkle.
? Remove soap scraps and display clean towels and new soap
? Store away all personal items ‘“ toiletries and photographs
? Regrout bathroom and kitchen tiles if necessary
? Clean carpets, floors, walls and windows
? Repaint in light neutral colors if necessary
? Remove all small rugs, shoes and sports equipment
? Clear kitchen counters, bulletin boards and refrigerator magnets
? Clean fireplace and fill with logs
? Remove all dead indoor flowers and plants
? Remove all odors ‘“ pets, food and smoking
? Remove or lock up all prescription drugs
? Remove or lock away all valuables including collectibles, jewelry and money

Daily Upkeep:

? Make all beds
? Keep garbage and diaper pails empty
? Keep clean towels in the bathroom
? Put away mail, magazines and papers
? Clean all dirty dishes, pots and pans
? Remove pet hair from furniture

During Showings:

? Open curtains and blinds
? Rooms should be airy, warm and smell pleasant
? Turn on all lights
? Have light background music playing
? Keep pets out of the way or out of the house during showings. Many people are allergic.
? Don’t discuss the sale with a potential buyer. Let the Realtor discuss price & terms.
? If possible, leave the house during a showing. The buyers will feel more comfortable discussing their thoughts if you are not there.

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