If you want to maximize the value of your home when you sell, you will need to put energy into preparing your home for the market. Depending on how much time you have spent on keeping the property in top shape, there will be a varying number of things needed to make your home show its best. Here is a to do list for the inside of your home that will help make the sale happen quickly and help you get the best value too.

1. Floor coverings should be free of stains, scratches and excessive wear.

2. Walls and ceilings should be free of stains, holes, mildew, cracks, water damage and nail pops. Neutral colors are best for attracting buyers.

3. Doors should all function properly, be free of squeaks and stains and have working handles and latches.

4. Windows should have clean unbroken glass, be operationally and free of mildew, with all locks and screens in good working order.

5. Window coverings should be free of dirt or stains, excessive sun damage or wear and should open and close properly.

6. Lights should have all bulbs working, with no exposed wires. Soft light bulbs are easier on the eyes and help make the home appealing.

7. Closets should be organized neatly with excessive junk removed, not over packed with old worn clothing and there should be minimal footwear visible.

8. Kitchens should be sparkling clean, counter tops organized, sinks free of cracks, faucets working properly, cupboards organized, all appliances working and stain free.

9. Bathrooms need to be spotless; well organized with fresh soap, the tub and shower sparkling, faucets working and clean, fresh towels hanging, toilet working and clean, closets organized, medicine cabinet cleaned, personal items removed and counter tops free of clutter.

10. Other rooms such as living room, dining room and bedrooms should be cleaned, organized and uncluttered.

11. Basement, furnace room, garage and storage rooms should be organized, have the junk removed, and all small items boxed. Dust and dirt should be removed and remaining items stacked neatly.

Buyers prefer a home that looks clean, is fully functional and is in the best location. While we can’t do much about the location of our home, we can make sure the other items are looked after. These things help contribute to the home selling quickly and they improve the possibility of receiving the best value for it. I haven’t talk about the outside here so on another day, I will share a few things to do for the exterior of the property.

R. Greg Osmond is a Platinum Award winning Realtor serving St. John’s and surrounding areas, Newfoundland and Labrador for over 20 years and can be reached at 709-895-2500. Visit http://www.rgregosmond.com/ for further information.