Maximizing First Impressions

General Exterior and Curb Appeal

• Prospective buyers will react well to signs your home has been meticulously
  maintained.

General Exterior

• Manicure landscaping: mow, edge and water lawn, trim hedges, weed and fertilize
  flowerbeds, and prune trees.
• Keep driveway clean and free of parked cars, and keep the garage door closed.
• Repair or replace loose or damaged roof shingles.
• Minimize cracks or crumbling on walkways, walls, or steps, and keep them clean and free of obstructions like toys or snow.
• Items from RV’s to waste cans left out can contribute to a cluttered or busy appearance. Make sure that from the street, your property appears clear.
• Inspect appearance of interior window coverings from the curb.
• Repair any peeling paint or loose caulking on windows or other areas.
• Take steps to eliminate insect or rodent pests.
• Pick up after your pets and neighborhood animals. Doorway Clean, Clear, Light and Bright

Doorway
While agents work the lockbox for a key, buyers have idle time to notice details.

• Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door.
• Consider adding pots of flowering plants in the entryway if weather permits.
• Eliminate cobwebs and groom doorway area windows, porch light, or decorative glass.

Interior Appeal

• Once inside, experts say most buyers are reaffirming their curbside decision.

Clean, Clear, Light and Bright

• Give every room in the house a thorough cleaning and remove all clutter. Hiring a
  cleaning service may pay for itself by adding to a buyer’s perceived value of your
  home.
• For a sleeker, more spacious look, consider placing furniture from crowded rooms in
  storage.
• Clear kitchen counters of everything other than perhaps a few pretty items. Ask
  yourself: In a model home, would a professional decorator put your choice of items out
  on the counter?
• Remember, closets will be opened! Keep closets, cupboards, and even your attic
  orderly and neat. Since you’re anticipating a move anyway, consider holding a garage
  sale or boxing and storing unused belongings.
• If necessary, repaint or clean/replace dingy, soiled or strongly colored walls, and
  window and floor coverings with a light, neutral shade. Bright rooms look bigger, and
  neutral colors help buyers envision their own furnishings and décor.
• Repair dripping faucets, burned out light bulbs, or cracked windowpanes.
• Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster, wallboard, wallpaper, and tiles.

Warm and Homey

• Experts say most buyers make their decision at first sight.
• Subtle scents of potpourri in bedrooms or baths and fresh baked cookies or cinnamon
  in the kitchen can make your home more inviting.
• Keep an attractive set of towels in each bathroom to be brought out only for showings.

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