work on yard and exterior
- Paint – Few things are as inexpensive and easy to do as painting. It gives a home great curb appeal and can attract or distract potential buyers.
- Front Entry – This is the first area buyers will see when entering your house. Put out a clean door mat, make sure all the doors and woodwork are freshly painted.
- Yard – Keep your yard neat and trim. Plant shrubs and inexpensive seasonal flowers. If you don’t have time to keep up with your yard, hire a professional to help.
- Driveway and Garage – Clean up any grease and oil spots, make sure the garage door opens easily and the automatic door opener functions properly. Make sure all cars, boats etc. are enclosed in the garage, carport or back yard. Do not park in the driveway or on the street.
- Fence – Make sure gates open properly and replace all missing or broken pickets.
- Roof – Remove visible debris and trim any branches that touch the roof.
- Patio – The patio should be swept clean and trimmed with an edger if necessary. A patio table with an umbrella adds a nice touch.
- Swimming Pool – Keep the pool and mechanical equipment clean and free of cobwebs. Make sure the pool sparkles and the water has the correct chemical balance.
basics around the house
- Windows – Repair or replace any torn screens and make sure windows are not painted shut. Draperies, curtains, blinds, etc. should be intact and in good working order.
- Doors – Make sure all hardware is secure and replace all damaged doors. Make sure all doors open and close smoothly. Oil anything that squeaks.
- Walls – Painting is cheap, easy and goes a long way toward creating that “new home” feel. Pick colors that are light and neutral. Scrub off any dirt, especially near light switches. Wallpaper should adhere smoothly to the wall. All holes or cracks in the drywall should be repaired.
- Floors – Floors should be polished if appropriate. Carpets should be steam cleaned and stretched if necessary.
mechanical and electrical
- Lights – All light switches and fixtures should be functional. Replace broken wall plates. All wall switches that control an electrical outlet should have a lamp plugged into them so the buyer does not suspect faulty electrical wiring. Make sure all light fixtures have working bulbs with adequate wattage. Do not forget the light bulbs in the exhaust vent and the appliances.
- Appliances – All appliances that will stay with the home should be in good working order.
- Plumbing – Fix any dripping or leaky faucets. Noisy or running toilets should also be repaired. Sinks should be free from any stains.
- Sprinkler Systems – The sprinkler system should be working with no defective heads.
interior space
- Closets and Storage – Storage space is a top priority with many buyers. Make sure your closets are clean and clutter free. Get rid of items you aren’t using. If necessary, rent a storage facility to store items while your house is on the market.
- Counters and Cabinets – Take kitchen appliances off the counter top. Make the kitchen as spacious as possible. This also applies to bathrooms.
- Garage – The garage needs to be able to hold a car or two. If your garage is full of boxes and clutter, consider renting a storage facility while your house is on the market. The garage should be relatively clean.