FIRST IMPRESSIONS

How your property appears from the outside is essential. To make an excellent first impression on a buyer, a clean driveway, a freshly mown lawn, or a trimmed hedge will work wonders. Do a critical inspection of the exterior of your property, paying particular attention to the condition of your windows, shutters, screens, and gutters. One of the first things a buyer will notice is the need for painting. If your property looks like it needs painting, many buyers will form an unfavorable impression. 

CLEANLINESS COUNTS

Once inside your property, one of the key factors that influence its appeal to a buyer is cleanliness. Most important is the front hallway, the kitchen, and the bathrooms. The state of the carpets can also be a determining factor. At the very least, have your carpets cleaned, and if they are worn, it's wise to replace them or remove them if there is hardwood underneath.

LESS IS MORE

Clutter makes a poor impression. In closets, cabinets, kitchen countertops, and other storage areas like basements, remove anything not needed for daily housekeeping. To make each room in your property look larger, get rid of or donate unnecessary furniture. 

LITTLE THINGS COUNT

It's easy to improve the appearance of any room. You may want to replace worn rugs or small pillows, put new towels in the bathroom or brighten up a room with a vase of flowers.

PULL TOGETHER

Get all the members of your household to pull together when it comes to getting - and keeping - your property ready to view. By getting everyone into the habit of spending a few minutes tidying up every morning for an afternoon showing, you can improve your chances considerably.