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DO A WALK THROUGH. Ask someone close to you,
someone that will be honest and realistic about the impression the
property makes on a stranger, to come with you. Start in the
driveway, go all through the house and into the backyard making a
list of everything that doesn’t look, feel or act right. This is a
top to bottom or roof to foundation walk through.
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CURB APPEAL. Tidy up the grounds – porches –
garage. Touch up exterior paint, clean/repair gutters and eaves.
Check for windows that are broken, stuck or missing screens. Your
front door gives a vital first impression. Make sure that the
doorbell works, the hardware is secure and polished and that it
doesn't squeak or stick. This includes the garage door. Is the fence
in need of some repair? Take the time now to do these odd jobs. Is
your garage a catchall for years’ worth of throwaways, old tires,
rusty barbeques, broken lawnmowers? A trip to the local dump might
be in order.
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PRETTY IN PINK?
Once you enter your home, take a look at the paint. Are the colours
out-dated or specific to your personal taste? Keeping the colour
palette neutral will allow the prospective buyers to imagine their
own furnishings and artwork occupying the space. Maybe the paint
colour is fine but it is in need of some touchups. Do-it-yourself
painting is economical but make sure that you don’t scrimp on the
quality of paint or in the preparation.
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BRIGHT IDEAS.
Every light socket in and around the house should have a good bulb
of adequate wattage. Repair or replace wall switches, outlets, and
light fixtures that don’t work. Don’t forget windows. Clean windows
can make a house seem 20% brighter.
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FLOORING COUNTS.
The first thing that most buyers notice is the carpet or floor in
the entrance. Put your best foot forward by having your carpets
shampooed. If the carpet is badly worn or stained think about
replacement. Are you sitting on a gold mine? Your old shag carpeting
may be hiding hardwood floors. If this is the case, tear up the shag
and show off the stylish wood grain. Repair or replace missing or
damaged pieces of tile. Whether your flooring is tile, wood/laminate
or linoleum ensure that it is clean and polished.
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BATHROOMS. Improvements in this room such as new
lighting and/or fittings can really make a difference to buyers.
Always fix any leaky toilets or dripping faucets. Bleach the stained
grout, replace missing or chipped tiles, and check the condition of
the caulking around tubs, sinks and toilets.
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KITCHENS. Here is another area of the home that
if presented correctly can add great value. Appliances should be
clean and in good working order. Keep the area under the sink clear
and easily accessible. As in the bathroom, bleach the stained grout,
replace missing or chipped tiles, and check the condition of the
caulking around the sink.
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LAUNDRY AREA. Make sure that the washer and dryer
are clean and in good working condition. If there is a laundry tub
or sink check that there are no leaks or drips.
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ILLUSION OF SPACE. Neatly arranged closets will
give the illusion of more space. Work to eliminate clutter from all
areas of your home, packing away seasonal items and personal
belongings that are seldom used. If your home does not have adequate
storage you may want to consider renting a storage locker for the
short term.
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