Remember the 60-second rule: That’s all the time you have to create a winning first impression.
Here are some simple to significant ways to maximize your home’s appeal.
Exterior
· Keep the grass cut and remove all yard clutter. · Weed and apply fresh mulch to flower beds.
· Apply fresh paint to wooden fences. · Tighten and clean all door handles. · Clean
windows inside and out. · Powerwash home’s exterior. · Ensure all gutters and downspouts
are firmly attached and functioning. · Paint the front door. · Buy a new welcome mat.
· Place potted flowers near the front door.
Interior
· Evaluate
the furniture in each room and remove anything that interrupts “the flow” or makes the room appear smaller. · Consider renting a storage unit to move items off-site. · Clean and organize cabinets, closets
and bookshelves. · Clean all light fixtures and ceiling fans. · Shampoo carpets. · Remove
excessive wall hangings and knickknacks. · Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps.
· Make minor repairs (torn screens, sticking doors, cracked caulking). · Clean or paint
walls and ceilings. · Replace worn cabinet and door knobs. · Fix or replace discolored
grout. · Replace broken tiles. · Replace worn countertops. · Special
details for showings. · Turn on all the lights. · Open all drapes and shutters in the
daytime. · Keep pets secured outdoors. · Buy new towels for bathrooms. · Buy
new bedding for bedrooms. · Replace old lamps or lampshades. · Play quiet background music.
· Light the fireplace or clean out the ashes and light a candelabrum. · Infuse home with
a comforting scent, such as apple spice or vanilla. · Set the dining room table for a fancy dinner party.
· Vacate the property while it is being shown.
