Tips For Preparing Your Home For Showings

• Tidy up the grounds, porches and garage. Keep the lawn trimmed and edged. Make sure that your yard is clean.  If you are showing in the winter make sure snow is cleared and walkways are clear of ice.

• Your front door adds to that first impression - be sure it is scrubbed or repainted if necessary.

• Wash windows and clean/dust window coverings.

• If any decorating or painting is needed (especially in the kitchen), do it now! Forty dollars worth of paint will make a much larger difference in the sales price.

• Bathrooms help sell homes. Make them sparkle.

• Illumination is like a welcome sign. Replace bulbs and turn on the lights for all showings.

• Wash dishes, make beds, put away clothes and straighten up.

• Keep pets out of the way during showings – many people are allergic.

• Leave the showing to the salesperson.  The salesperson knows the buyer’s requirements and can best emphasize the features of your home.  If possible, leave the house during a showing.

• Don’t discuss anything about the sale with a potential customer.  Let your agent discuss price, terms, possession and other items concerning the sale.   Your agent is qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.

• Never apologize for appearance, it either distracts or accentuates the problem.

• Pack away valuables; store extra furniture, knick-knacks, and medicines.
  

• Look at your home objectively. Pretend you are seeing it for the first time, through a buyer’s eyes.
  

We only have one chance to make that good first impression!