This page may not be the kind of helpful hints you get
from Helouise, however, it is designed to assist you with the preparation of
your home by maximizing the first impression.
Remember what they say, you never get a second chance
to make a first impression! So make that impression a memorable one.
CURB APPEAL:
Probably the most important
aspect effecting the future sale of your property. Brokers agree that most
buyers make their decisions based on their first impression of any property. So
don't give them anything to object to prior to viewing the interior of the
property.
Buyers will respond positively to evidence that your home has been
maintained properly showing pride in ownership:
Make sure the landscaping is manicured.
Mow, edge, water, trim, weed and fertilize. Plant some colorful flowers to
get an extra edge. Make it a feast for the eyes. The better it looks the
quicker it will sell providing the property is priced to meet market
demands.
Keep the property clear of refuse
containers, toys, sports apparatus and excess cars . A cluttered appearance
is a major detractor.
If it's within your marketing budget, a
fresh coat of paint will enhance the overall appearance of the property. If
painting your home is not in the budget give some thought to at least
painting the front door and trim at the entry.
Repair any items that detract from the
overall experience, i.e. damaged roof tiles, chipped paint or broken windows
and screens.
Got a problem in your home that will effect its' marketability? Write me to
see if I can help.
E-mail address for
replies
SHOWINGS AND OPEN HOUSES: Open house and
showings will normally have been scheduled in advance, giving you the
opportunity to prepare. However, this is not always the case and you don't want
to miss a chance to present your home in its' best light. If you are not at home
and allow showings to be conducted during your absence make sure that your home
is in condition to show.
Review hints on maximizing first
impressions above.
If you are home prior to the showing
remember to open blinds or turn on lights in areas that need to be
brightened up.
Make your home appealing and inviting to
your guests by lighting candles, placing fresh flowers or baking bread or
cinnamon rolls. The new buzz word for the millennium is aroma
therapy-if it smells good they will feel good.
Make sure the entire house is clean and
picked up. Make beds, clean dishes, toilet lids closed, straighten pictures
and pillows, light fireplace (winter), place clean towels and remove pets to
the outdoors. Take a look around if it doesn't look good to you it won't to
anyone else.
Real
Estate Hints
Find out
the value of your home or property by
visiting the Home
Values
page. Just click out the icon above.