Preparation Checklist

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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.