Tools for Selling Your Home

Printable Seller's Checklist

First impressions are lasting impressions. Therefore, it is advisable for you to spruce up the exterior and interior of your home before the first buyer comes knocking on your door. The following is a good guideline.

EXTERIOR

1. The lawn and shrubbery should be trimmed.

2. Plant red plants to add color to the front yard. Studies show red works best.

3. The front and back yard should be free of debris, leaves raked.

4. Remove pine straw and leaves off roof and in gutters. Have the roof cleaned by a professional (.10c per/sq ft) if you have noticeable stains.

5. Touch up exterior paint, especially look at the condition of the eaves. Mildew stains can be removed with a solution of 2 parts water to 1 part bleach.

INTERIOR

1. Thin out any furniture that makes the room look smaller than it really is. Also, remove any furniture that makes it difficult to walk in the traffic pattern or to open closet doors. (Realtors will find it hard to show your home completely if this is not done). To test if you have done this correctly, walk through your home, starting at the front door, and walk through your home as if you have never seen it before.

2. Fix leaky faucets, loose doorknobs, broken windows.

3. Keep all rooms clean, bright and neatly arranged. Make beds.

4. Open blinds completely and leave some lights on for all showings.

5. Have the home smelling good. Beware, odors can seriously influence buyer's decision. Avoid smoking and if you have pets, keep them as clean as possible to avoid these odors.

6. Clear out closet space.

7. Turn off the TV for all showings. Soft easy listening music sets a mood and creates a desire for the buyer to stay in your home as long as possible. Regardless if it is right or not, Buyers do make decisions very quickly. If they feel you have let things go, they will more likely to buy another home or if they do bid on your home, they are likely to bid lower than if the house was in sparkling condition.