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August 2002
Preparing your home for sale
Are you thinking of selling your home? Before your REALTOR® begins showing your home, you will want to make sure it's in tip-top condition. An attractive, well-kept home generally has a better chance of selling a little faster.
Minor exterior and interior improvements can add value to your home without incurring a large renovation bill. Think back to what first attracted you to your home and determine how best to highlight and improve your home's best features.
Following are a few ideas. Consult with your REALTOR® to see what types of improvements make the most sense.
Start with the outside: an inviting exterior brings potential buyers inside your home.
- Keep lawns and gardens well maintained;
- Ensure garage and porch areas are free of clutter and refuse;
- Repair loose siding or pavement;
- Replace any damaged roof shingles, eaves troughs or cracked windows;
- Wash windows, gutters, mailbox and doors;
- Secure loose shutters or awnings.
The inside story: you can improve the inside of your home without spending a great deal of money. Two important areas are the kitchen and bathroom.
- Ensure kitchens and bathrooms are sparkling clean;
- Repair dripping facets and showerheads;
- Steam clean or replace carpets;
- Thoroughly clean every room in the house, removing all clutter;
- Repaint dingy walls or kitchen cabinets with a neutral colour;
- Replace worn or outdated countertops and cracked light-switch plates.
- Remove any items (like chandeliers) not being sold with your home;
- Rooms that are too cluttered give the impression that they're much smaller than their true size. Try to create a feeling of spaciousness.
Showing checklist
- As a courtesy to buyers, leave your home during a showing;
- Keep pets out of the way, preferably out of the home;
- Ensure every room is tidy, well aired and adequately lit;
- Remove money, jewellery and small valuables from plain sight;
- Open drapes to maximize natural light;
- Keep stairways and hallways clear;
- Use finishing touches like fresh flowers and candles .
Ask your REALTOR® for a checklist to prepare your home for showing. By following these relatively simple tips, you'll feel proud of your home and potential purchasers are sure to appreciate its beauty.
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