1. Get rid of clutter. Throw out or file stacks of
newspapers and magazines. Pack away most of your
small decorative items. Store out-of-season clothing to
make closets seem roomier. Clean out the garage.

2. Wash your windows and screens to let more light into
the interior.

3. Keep everything extra clean. Wash fingerprints from
light switch plates. Mop and wax floors. Clean the stove
and refrigerator. A clean house makes a better first
impression and convinces buyers that the home has been
well cared for.

4. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to
eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the
windows.

5. Put higher wattage bulbs in light sockets to make
rooms seem brighter, especially basements and other dark
rooms. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.

6. Make minor repairs that can create a bad impression.
Small problems such as sticky doors, torn screens,
cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet may seem trivial,
but they’ll give buyers the impression that the house isn’t
well maintained.

7. Tidy your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves, trim the
bushes, and edge the walks. Put a pot or two of bright
flowers near the entryway.

8. Patch holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if
applicable.

9. Clean your gutters.

10. Polish your front doorknob and door numbers.

Go Back To Seller's Tips Index
Go To Homepage