PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE
Clean the closets, clean the kitchen, spruce up the yard and de-clutter anywhere and everywhere you can. Take a deep breath, and then begin to take a look at your home as though you were the one who would be buying it. If you don't like what you see, chances are, the home buyers won't like it either.
Getting your home ready for sale means putting your home in "showcase" condition. Think of it as having company every day until you get a home buyer. You have to look your best at all times. It's hard to do. But, if getting the most for your home is important to you, then you will pay close attention to the following points.
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The front of the house should be as appealing as possible. Even if your home needs paint, a roof or some sort of exterior improvement, you can still keep the front clean and landscaped. How the front of your home appeals to home buyers can mean the difference between your home selling in a few days and it selling in a few months (if at all).
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If you have carpet, be sure that it is clean. Foul odors of any type turn buyers away. The same goes for cooking fish or fried foods immediately before or during a showing.
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If you have older appliances, an older kitchen, an older vanity, you need not replace these items. However, it is extremely important that these relics are kept amazingly clean.
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Closets should be emptied wherever possible. Place unneeded clothing in one area or closet, leaving the other closets to appear spacious. Except for a food pantry, counter tops should be at least 60% clear of items. Cabinets and drawers should be able to be easily opened and closed.
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Safeguard all important belongings, including prescription drugs.
Clean the garage and basement. Be sure that your furnace, air conditioning systems and other system components are in working order. Systems that need repair or maintenance should be completed prior to the showings.
