The exterior of your property is the invitation to the buyer to stop and take a look. If you have a well kept front yard, trimmed bushes and a green lawn it provides the impression of:
"This place has been looked after".
It is what a potential buyer see's first and makes an initial impression on them. No matter how charming your home is on the inside, if you can not attract a buyer in you will not sell the property.
Now you have the potential buyer in your home, they will make a quick first impression on the state of the house. Although this is just a first impression, it can last, use fragrences to provide a relaxing atmosphere, make sure that the garbage is removed regularly to prevent any unwanted smells. A homely relaxing atmosphere provides a very good first impression which will be remembered.
Carpeting/Walls/Ceilings
These three areas alone could break a deal, dirty carpets on entering, stained walls and insects laying dead on the floor. Buyers look for signs of missuse, that pet odor which lingers in the air may put a buyer off from making an offer. The entrance way should be bright and airy and offer a warm welcome.
Living room/Family room
Make sure that this room is tidy, magazines in a rack kept to a minimum, coffee tables clean and inviting. Store remote controls out of site and make sure all drapes are open to allow as much natural light in as possible. Place fresh flower or even a pot plant and use light fragrance to scent the air. One place to make sure is cleaned are the planter shelves (if any) these collect a lot of dust and cobwebs which always tend to become visible during a showing. Not a deal breaker but could put doubt in the mind of the buyer.
Kitchen
The kitchen is the single most important area in the home, and is in most cases the center of family life. Cooking the family meal, snacks or even popcorn, the whole family uses it regularly. If the back splash is stained or dirty, or the tile grout faded this could give the impression that the property has not been maintained and could spoil the chances of getting your asking price. Make sure the kitchen (and breakfast nook if there is one) are brightly lit all blinds and drapes open to allow natural light to flood in. Again if possible use a very soft fragrance to set a mood, either light aromour of coffee or of some kind of home made pie.
Bedroom
Make sure that all bedrooms are well aired and that all personal belongings are stored away from sight. A good bedroom no matter the size will always portray lots of space but maintain a warm comforting atmosphere. Drapes and blinds open allow in Natural light, remove any furniture that is to bulky and store this will provide an excellent flow around the bed and will appear to make the room twice it's size.
Bathrooms
The bathroom is fairly simple to setup, make sure that all tiles and doors to the shower are dry and clean and do not show water stains. Pay attention to areas around the corners of the shower and look for any signs of mold (treat as needed). If sinks are slow to empty clean the trap under the sink. Make sure all mirros are clean and smear free and the counter tops have minimal items on display. Make sure all personl items are stored out of site including any medications. Purchase some new towels and put these out before showings, this will enhance the appeal. It is a good idea to use fragrances here based on an ocean breeze smell to provide a clean sensation.
Basement/Attic
Although most people forget about these areas they can really say a lot. It is the place that all your unwanted items are stored, this is an accepted idea, but beware, if this area is untidy then this can give the impression that everything has just been thrown there to hide it during the showing. Make sure things are sorted neatly, access avaiable to the area and adequate light is avaiable. Although many people never venture into the attic area, eay access could increase the value of the property. It is also these areas that can provide an insight in to insect and rodent problems.
Garage
Although garages are mostly accepted as a functional area they also need to be accseible. Keep it well organized and store bikes and garden equipment neatly. Ensure that the garage door operates correctly and that any staines on the floor removed. Ensure that garage light works and it is a good idea to treat the perimiter of the garage with a barrier defence bug spray.
For a pamphlet on this subject complete with additional pointers please
Click here
and we will be happy to send you a copy