Preparing Your Home for Showing

Effective marketing will help ensure that your property receives maximum exposure to attract a ready, willing and able buyer. However, other factors can affect the sale of your home. The appearance of your home, a buyer's first impressions, and home prices in your neighborhood can all have an impact. While we cannot control certain factors, some are within your power to affect.

When you're preparing your house for sale, remember the importance of first impressions. The market isn't the only factor that influences whether you get your asking price - appearance and overall condition play a major role. Here are some easy things you can do to make your home more appealing to buyers:

Outside:

It is estimated that more than half of all houses are sold before the buyers even get out of their car. Stand across the street from your house and review its curb appeal.

• Sweep front walkway.

• Remove newspapers, bicycles and toys.

• Park extra cars away from the property

• Trim back the shrubs, weed any flower beds.

• Clean windows.

• Make sure roof gutters are in good condition.

• Mow the lawn frequently and plant flowers.

• Keep pet areas clean.

Inside:

• Kitchen and bathroom should shine.

• Keep plumbing and all appliances in good working order.

• All sealants (windows, tub, sink etc.) in good condition.

• Apply fresh, clean paint throughout.

• Open drapes and turn on lights.

• Straighten closets, put toys and clutter away.

• Turn off the television and play soft music on the stereo.

• Keep pets out of the way and pet areas clean and odor-free.

• Carpets should be cleaned and vacuumed.

• Make beds and put all clothes away.

• Place fresh flowers in the main rooms.

• Secure jewelry, cash, prescriptions and other valuables.

Important Reminders:

• Potential buyers usually feel more comfortable if owners aren't present during showings.

• If people unaccompanied by an agent request to see your property, please refer them to your real estate professional for an appointment.

• Leave a number where you can be reached if you are leaving town, even for a weekend.