OUTSIDE.  What can be done to enhance your property's "drive-by appearance?"

• Walk outside and view your home from different angles. (Buyers will!)
  
• Remove clutter from yard.  Cut and edge grass, clip shrubs and sweep walks.
  
• Paint front door and exterior, if needed.
  
• Reattach or replace missing downspouts.  Repaint, if peeling.
  
• Wash widows inside and out.  Replace broken glass and screens.
  
• Clean out garage.  Make sure door opener is in safe operating condition.
  
• Remove bikes, wagons and skateboards from the front of the home.  Keep garage door closed.
  

INSIDE.  How can we create a warm, well-kept feeling?

• Get rid of clutter and store extra belongings to create a spacious appearance.
  
• The kitchen should be spotless.  Avoid leaving dishes in the sink or on counters. Remove grease from stove area.
  
• The fewer things you have on the kitchen counter tops the bigger the kitchen will look.
  
• When painting and redecorating, conventional neutral colors sell best.
  
• Floors should shine and carpets should be vacuumed.
  
• Clean out the fireplace and place logs in it.
  
• Straighten up closets and remove unnecessary items to make space look larger.
  
• Repair leaky faucets and unclog sinks that drain slowly.
  
• Re-caulk and scrub bathroom tub, tile and sinks.  Replace shower curtain, if necessary.
  
• Lubricate sticky or squeaky doors.  Tighten doorknobs.
  
• Check ceilings for leak stains.  Fix any damage and repaint.
  
• Clean basement.  Dispose of items you are not going to move.  Check mechanical equipment, if necessary, such as furnace, water softener, etc.
  
• Replace items that will not be included in the sale (ex. Chandeliers, matching drapes/bedspreads).
  
• Clear hallways and stairs of everything.
  
• Have beds made and dirty clothes picked up and put away.
  
• Be sure the entire home smells fresh and inviting.  Take care of any lingering cooking odors or pet odors.
  

SHOWINGS.  How can we make the buyers feel welcome?

• Have your home well lit, even in the basement, closets and garage.
  
• Place jewelry, cash and valuables out of sight.
  
• Set the dining table with your best dishes to create a pleasant atmosphere.
  
• Have a fire in the fireplace, when safe to do so.
  
• Lit candles and soft music can be a nice touch.
  
• Keep the music low and the television turned off.
  
• Let the agent show the home.  If asked a question, answer briefly.
  
• Be as inconspicuous as possible during showings.  Try to step outside or take pets for a walk.