Making a GREAT First Impression
Exterior
- Lawn Care: Keep your lawn neatly mowed and edged. A well-maintained yard creates a positive first impression and signals that the home is cared for.
- Trim Hedges & Shrubs: Neatly trimmed shrubs and hedges enhance curb appeal and prevent a neglected appearance.
- Garden Maintenance: Weed, edge, and refresh garden beds by removing dead plants and adding fresh mulch. This adds color and life to your yard.
- Clean Driveway: Keep your driveway clear of clutter and clean oil stains. A tidy driveway increases curb appeal and shows attention to detail.
- Garage Organization: Clear out the garage so it’s seen as usable space, not a storage area. A clean, organized garage helps buyers see the home’s full potential.
- Touch Up Paint: Freshen up the exterior paint, including the house, garage, and any outbuildings, for a well-maintained look.
Maintenance
- Fix Leaks: Repair leaking faucets or toilets before listing. Small issues like these can be flagged by inspectors and delay the sale.
- HVAC Care: Clean furnace and air conditioner filters as part of regular maintenance. Buyers will appreciate knowing these systems are in good working condition.
- Tighten Hardware: Check and tighten any loose door knobs or latches to ensure everything is functioning smoothly.
- Repair Cracks: Fix any visible cracks in plaster or walls to prevent negative first impressions.
- Clean Windows: Ensure windows are clean and in good condition, including repairing any broken glass or stuck sliders.
- Seal Gaps: Replace worn caulking around tubs and sinks to prevent water damage and ensure everything looks fresh.
- Light Fixtures: Replace any burned-out bulbs to ensure the home is well-lit during showings.
- Squeaky Doors & Floors: Oil squeaky doors and repair creaking floorboards to keep everything in working order.
Cleanliness
- Bathrooms & Kitchen: Keep these high-traffic areas spotless. Clean surfaces, sinks, and tubs to make them shine.
- Appliances: Clean the fridge and stove, both inside and out. Even if they’re not included, clean appliances make a great impression.
- Remove Clutter: Keep hallways, stairs, and countertops free from clutter to make the home feel more spacious and inviting.
Create Space
- Clear Clutter: Remove excess furniture and unnecessary items. Store them in a rental unit if needed. Less furniture makes rooms feel bigger and more open.
- Kitchen: Clear countertops and stove tops for a clean, spacious look. A clutter-free kitchen is always more appealing to buyers.
- Storage Boxes: Remove empty boxes or containers and store them out of sight until you’re ready to move.
At the Front Door
- Porch & Foyer: Clean the porch and foyer area. Make sure it's free of clutter, swept clean, and ready to greet buyers. Consider adding fresh flowers for a welcoming touch.
- Doorbell & Locks: Test the doorbell to ensure it’s working. Repair any door locks or handles that are worn or malfunctioning.
- Screen Repair: Fix any torn or damaged screens, especially on doors and windows. Many buyers want to enjoy fresh air, so functional screens are a plus.
- Fresh Paint: If needed, apply fresh paint or varnish to the front door. A clean, fresh-looking door makes a great first impression.
By addressing these details, you’ll improve the overall appeal of your home and create an environment where buyers can easily imagine themselves living. First impressions matter, and the time and effort you put in now can pay off with a quicker, more profitable sale.
