1. Start with the outside. Mow the law, prune bushes, remove dead branches and get rid of outdoor furniture you don't intend to move.
2. Paint the front door and porches, or at least clean them up.
3. Check for leaks. A drip may not seem important, but does it suggest poor maintenance in places which can't be seen? Eliminate buyer worries and fix the little items which may be seen as clues relating to the general condition of the home.
4. Clean out closets and storage areas. Donate old clothes and furniture to local charities. This will create a sense of greater space—and mean less to move.
5. Have a professional service clean carpets. This is especially important if the carpets are to stay.
6. Caulk around tubs and sinks. New caulk invariably looks better than old caulk, and you'll also prevent leaks.
7. Replace bulbs that don't work and use as much wattage as is appropriate for each fixture. Bright lights make homes seem, well, light and airy.
8. Have a lot of books and magazines that you don't want? See if you can donate to a local library, hospital or charity. You'll get both more space and a write-off.
9. Is there anything in the house that will surprise visitors? As an example, mirrors in poorly-lit basements can be dangerous. Look at the property from the perspective of a first-time visitor. Things which are known to you may be uncomfortable to visitors.
10. Change your furnace filter and clean the cover. Buyers will get a general impression of a well kept home and not of a neglected one.
11. People have both allergies and concerns when it comes to animals. If possible, make arrangements to have your pet elsewhere when your home is being shown.
12. Homes in a given location and price range battle for a common pool of buyers. Ask your agent to examine the property for specific showing tips to make your home more competitive.
Archive for June of 2007
12 Ways to Make Your Home More Appealing to Buyers
June 23, 2007IRISH MUSIC AND DANCE WITH ST. LOUIS IRISH ARTS
June 20, 2007
My mother worked at the Ozark Folk Center for a number of years and this was her favorite performance of the year. Colorful costumes, traditional Irish music and dance. June 22- 27. Contact the Ozark Folk Center at 870-269-3851 or www.ozarkfolkcenter.com for more information.
