Making a GREAT first impression

In today’s age of consumerism, every buyer is comparative shopping.  Make a small investment in time, money and effort in your home in order to gain a solid advantage over competing properties.  Pay attention to detail because first impressions count with buyers. You have one chance, and it starts with curb appeal.

Exterior Appearance:

• Keep lawns cut:  A uncut lawn will make a buyer feel like there are other things about the home that are also neglected which could  discourage them from wanting to see the home.
• Trim hedges and shrubs.
• Weed and edge gardens.
• Clear driveway and clean up oil spills.
• Clean out the Garage.
• If the exterior of your home is in need of paint or repair, do it before the home goes on the market.  Again, first impressions are everything!

Maintenance:

• Repair leaking taps and toilets.
• Clean the furnace, filters and the Air Conditioner. The working condition of these items will be a major concern to any buyer.
• Tighten door knobs and latches.
• Repair cracked plaster.
• Clean and repair windows.
• Repair seals around tubs and basins.
• Replace defective light bulbs.
• Oil squeaking doors.
• Repair squeaking floor boards.

Squeaky Clean:

• Clean and freshen bathrooms.
• Clean fridge and stove.  Even when the appliances are not included in the sale, they should be  kept clean and in perfect working order.  Odors coming  from a dirty stove or fridge  can give a poor first impression.

Create Space:

• Remove surplus furniture:  This will make the rooms seem more spacious.
• Clear Kitchen clutter off the counters and stove top.
• Remove empty boxes and containers.

• Clean porch and foyer.
• Ensure door bell is in working order.
• Paint or varnish front door
• Repair door locks.