A few great tips on creating an atmosphere that will charm buyers and make them want to buy your home. Remember that you'll never get another chance to make a first impression. And first impressions are what counts! Follow these simple tips and create a competitive edge that will, not only sell your home more quickly, but attract a much higher price for you. 

Curb Appeal:

• Trim trees and shrubs, clean out flower beds, add a few flats of seasonal flowers and mulch. Clean the porch and front door area, paint if necessary. 

Absolute Basics:

• Start by airing out the home. Most people are turned off by even the smallest odors.
• Wash all the windows inside and out. It's amazing what clean windows will do.
• If it's been a while since the carpets were cleaned, now is the time. Bare floors should also be polished.
• Put bright light bulbs in every socket. Buyers like bright and cheery. 
• Clean out closets, cabinets, and drawers. Closets should look like they have room to hold additional items. Get everything off the floors and clean clutter. You're moving, so start packing.
• Make sure rooms are not overcrowded with furniture. Select pieces that look best and store the rest.
• Keep the kitchen sparkling clean. Make sure all appliances are clean, straighten up cupboards that appear cluttered and get the floors gleaming.
• Bathtubs, showers and sinks should be freshly caulked. The grout should be clean and in good condition. Make sure there are no leaking faucets or slow draining traps.

A few more suggestions...

• If you have limited counter space in the kitchen, put unnecessary items away to make the countertops appear open.
• Keep children's toys out of the front yard, sidewalks and front porches.
• Clean ashes out of the fireplace.
• Make sure that the pull-down staircase is working properly and there is a light in the attic.
• The pool should be sparkling and inviting.

For those willing to go the extra mile...

• There are some things you can do that will really add flair to your home. If your house is the least bit dated, changing out wallpaper and replacing outdated light fixtures adds desirability.
• Fresh paint on interior and/or exterior where needed.
• New appliances in the kitchen can be an exciting feature that can actually make the difference in a buyer's decision.

These items will pay you back tenfold if you have the time and effort to handle ahead of time.
Showing you home...

• When you leave the house in the morning or during the day, leave it as if you know your home is going to be shown.
• keep good scents in the house, such as potpourri or simmering pots or candles. However not too overbearing, we don't want the buyers to be quick because they can't breathe. 
• make sure all the lights are on and window treatments are open, and beds are made.
• Turn off the television.
• Keep pets out of the way - preferably out of the home. Many people are uncomfortable around some animals and may even be allergic to them. 
• Leave your premises when the house is being shown. Take a short walk or run errands. Buyers are intimidated when sellers are present and tend to hurry through the home and will lack them from visualizing themselves from living in the home.

For more advise on preparing your home for sale, contact me today and I'll show you how to get the most from the sale of your home in today's real estate market.