1. Get rid
of clutter. Throw out or file stacks of newspapers and magazines.
Pack away most of your small decorative items. Store out-of-season
clothing to make closets seem roomier. Clean out the garage.
2. Wash your windows and screens to let more light
into the interior.
3. Keep everything extra clean. Wash fingerprints
from light switch plates. Mop and wax floors. Clean the stove and
refrigerator. A clean house makes a better first impression and
convinces buyers that the home has been well cared for.
4. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to
eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows.
5. Put higher wattage bulbs in light sockets to make
rooms seem brighter, especially basements and other dark rooms.
Replace any burnt-out bulbs.
6. Make minor repairs that can create a bad
impression. Small problems, such as sticky doors, torn screens,
cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet, may seem trivial, but
they’ll give buyers the impression that the house isn’t well
maintained.
7. Tidy your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves,
trim the bushes, and edge the walks. Put a pot or two of bright
flowers near the entryway.
8. Patch holes in your driveway and reapply sealant,
if applicable.
9. Clean your gutters.
10. Polish your front doorknob and door numbers.
Reprinted from REALTOR® Magazine Online by permission of
the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
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