HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOME

As the old saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. The same is true for your home. A potential buyer's first impression will color his or her perception of the entire property.

Disassociate Yourself With Your Home
Make the mental decision to "let go" of your emotions and focus on the fact that soon this house will no longer be yours.

Picture yourself handing over the keys to the new owners!

De-Personalize
Buyers can't see past personal artifacts, and you don't want them to be distracted. Pack up those personal photographs and family heirlooms. You want buyers to imagine their own photos on the walls, and they can't do that if yours are there!

De-Clutter!
People collect an amazing quantity of junk. Consider this: if you haven't used it in over a year, you probably don't need it. If you don't need it, why not donate it or throw it away?

• Remove all books from bookcases.
• Pack up those knickknacks.
• Clean off everything on kitchen and bathroom counters.
• Rearrange kitchen cabinets and bedroom closets.

Make The House Sparkle!

• Wash windows inside and out.
• Clean out cobwebs.
• Rent a pressure washer and spray down sidewalks and exterior.
• Re-caulk tubs, showers and sinks.
• Vacuum daily.
• Dust furniture, ceiling fan blades and light fixtures.
• Bleach dingy grout.
• Replace worn rugs.
• Hang up fresh towels.
• Clean and air out any musty smelling rooms. Odors are a no-no.
• Clean and freshen kitchen and baths.
• Replace burned out light bulbs.
• Clear walk and driveway of all debris.
• Weed and edge gardens.
• Repair gutters and eaves.
• Touch up exterior paint.
• Cut lawns and trim shrubs.