ü      "YOU NEVER GET A SECOND CHANCE TO MAKE A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION" Start with your lawn - the first thing that prospective buyers see. Fertilize if needed, and always keep snow and ice removed from the sidewalks and steps.

  ü       YOUR FRONT DOOR WELCOMES THE PROSPECT so always make sure that it is clean, and repaint if needed. A seasonal door decoration adds a warm, inviting touch.

 

ü       DECORATING HELPS ASSURE TOP DOLLAR and a quick sale. Faded walls, worn and scratched woodwork reduce appeal. A little Liquid Gold does wonders for scratched and dry-looking woodwork, paneling and kitchen cabinets.

 

ü       CLEAN WINDOWS SHOW THE BRIGHT SIDE OF YOUR HOME.   By opening draperies and curtains, you highlight your walls and ceilings, letting the prospective buyers see how cheerful your home can be.

 

ü      A CLEAN KITCHEN IS A MUST. Many buyers judge the housekeeping by the oven and stove. Use your favorite oven cleaner until the oven shines. Clean the interior of your dishwasher, removing stains, especially on the door. Clean out your kitchen cabinets and pack away items not needed. Counter tops should be clean and free of clutter. Baking soda is good for removing stains on Formica, and it will not mar the finish. Jubilee is an excellent counter top polish.

 

ü       SPARKLING BATHROOMS HELP SELL YOUR HOME , so repair caulking in bath tubs and showers. Shower doors, ceramic tile and grouting should be cleaned and free of soap film. Fixtures should be polished and free of water marks. If there is a window in your bathroom, open it and let the fresh air in.

 

ü      AVOID CLUTTERED APPEARANCES by removing excess furniture and other items that you seldom use.  Keep newspapers, toys and other articles picked up. Clear stairways are essential. Objects on any stairs are dangerous.

 

ü       MAKE CLOSETS LOOK LARGER by removing or packing items that can be stored elsewhere. Neat, well-organized closets show that there is ample space.

 

ü       FROM TOP TO BOTTOM display the full value of your basement, garage and other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles. Dark, dull walls are easily brightened with a coat of paint. If the basement or crawl space has a damp smell, place a bag of lime in the damp area.

 

ü       CHECK MAJOR APPLIANCES. Drain a pail of water from the heater to remove rust particles, and change the filter on the furnace. A little oil corrects noisy attic or appliance fans. Be sure to clean the exterior of the water heater, furnace and other appliances that will be seen by prospective buyers.

 

ü        REPAIRS ARE REQUIRED if closet doors are off their tracks, door knobs are loose, screen doors don't close, faucets are dripping or floor or ceiling molding is cracked. Minor flaws in your house suggest neglect to the prospect. Have them fixed so we can get top dollar for your house.

 

ü       MINIMIZE DISTRACTION. No one should be at home during showings. This puts prospective buyers at ease and gives them a chance to absorb clearly the advantages of your property. Most people like dogs, but they distract attention. If you have a pet, we suggest you keep it out of the way, preferably out of the house.

 

ü       NIGHT APPOINTMENTS. Remember to turn on the porch light and any other outside lights that highlight your property when showing the house after dark. Also, have the house well-lit throughout when the hour of appointment nears.