Curb Appeal If people don't like what they see on the outside they won't want to see what is on the inside. Walk to the street and take an objective view of your home. Does the house look dirty; is the paint peeling? Do you see more weeds then grass? Are there toys or other objects in the yard?Start off by pressure washing the exterior and driveway if needed. Cut back shrubs to enable a full view of the house. Weed all beds and add new mulch or pine straw. Paint a fresh coat of paint on the front door and update the hardware. Purchase a new doormat and add some colorful flowers.
Start Packing Early Get a head start on your move. You are selling your house not your stuff. Remember space sells! Invest in a storage unit or POD and start clearing out the stuff you can live without. Pack- up or donate at least the items in your closets. Cut out the clutter. Go through and pack up all knick-knacks and personal photos. Clear counters in kitchen and bathrooms.
Lighten and Brighten Lighter spaces appear larger and more airy. Think about painting all rooms a light, neutral color. Take down heavy drapes. If your cabinetry is dark and dated, paint it white. Update light fixtures in kitchen and bathrooms. Clean all windows outside and in. Let the light shine in!
Clean, Clean, Clean! Think toothbrush. Have the carpets steam cleaned. If the stains won't go away, it's time to replace the carpet. It is very hard for buyers to get passed dirty carpets. Pay close attention to bathrooms. Clean grout and wipe down all cabinets. Make sure shower doors sparkle. All faucets should be shining. In the kitchen, scrub the sink, the counters and the cabinets. Wipe down the refrigerator and other appliances.
Set the Stage - Now that all the hard work is done, it's time for the fluff. Put out fresh flowers throughout the house. Lay out decorative towels and soaps in the bathrooms. Turn on all lights and open all of the blinds and curtains. Play soft, soothing music and use a clean scent air freshener. Set the table with appropriate place settings. Let the buyers envision themselves living in the home.