1. Declutter. You want to let potential buyers know the home has been well-cared for, and the best way to make that first impression is with a clean appearance.
○ Box up and store any items you won’t need in the next 1-3 months.
○ Tidy up any “catch-all” areas.
○ Store toys and other miscellaneous items in attractive bins.
○ Consider a yard sale, a donation truck or a hauling company for larger items.
2. Depersonalize. Buyers can’t envision themselves in a home where they see too many personal affects that belong to someone else.
○ Clear refrigerator doors, countertops, windows, etc. of pictures, art projects, etc.
○ Tastefully select only a few personal photos and hanging art to keep displayed.
3. Neutralize. It’s also harder for buyers to imagine themselves in a space that has been decorated for someone else.
○ Paint any brightly colored walls. A fresh coat of paint in general goes a long way.
○ Replace necessary accent pieces (rugs, throw pillows, etc.) with inexpensive neutral options.
4. Landscape. No professional needed! Just ensure you have a neat and tidy curb appeal to make a great first impression.
○ Tidy up the lawn – rake, mow, weed, edge, etc.
○ Trim back any bushes and tidy up flower beds.
○ Sweep surfaces such as patios and decks.
○ Remove or consolidate clutter such as bicycles, toys, etc.
5. Touch-up. When buyers notice small maintenance items, they wonder what else might be wrong with the house.
○ Fix ripped or dented screens.
○ Fix cracks, dents or chipped paint on walls.
○ Clean or replace worn carpeting.
○ Consider refinishing worn hardwood floors.
Do a final full-house cleaning (mop, vacuum, etc.) just before going on the market and your home will be ready to shine!