How to Prep Your Home To Sell
Always remember the 60-Second Rule: That's all the time you have to create a winning first impression!
Here are some simple to significant ways to maximize your home's appeal.
Exterior
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Keep the grass cut and remove all yard clutter.
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Weed and apply fresh mulch to flower beds.
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Apply fresh paint to wooden fences.
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Tighten and clean all door handles.
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Clean windows inside and out.
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Power-wash home's exterior.
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Ensure all gutters and downspouts are firmly attached and functioning.
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Paint the front door.
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Buy a new welcome mat.
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Place potted flowers near the front door.
Interior
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Evaluate the furniture in each room and remove anything that interrupts "the flow" or makes the room appear smaller. Consider renting a storage unit to move items off-site.
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Clean and organize cabinets, closets and bookshelves.
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Clean all light fixtures and ceiling fans.
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Shampoo carpets.
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Remove excessive wall hangings and knick-knacks.
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Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps.
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Make minor repairs (torn screens, sticking doors, cracked caulking).
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Clean or paint walls and ceilings.
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Replace worn cabinet and door knobs.
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Fix or replace discolored grout.
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Replace broken tiles.
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Replace worn countertops.
Special Details for Showings
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Turn on all the lights.
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Open all drapes and shutters in the daytime.
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Keep pets secured outdoors.
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Buy new towels for bathrooms.
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Buy new bedding for bedrooms.
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Replace old lamps or lampshades.
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Play quiet background music.
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Light the fireplace or clean out the ashes and light a candelabrum.
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Infuse home with a comforting scent, such as apple spice or vanilla.
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Set the dining room table for a fancy dinner party.
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Vacate the property while it is being shown.