How To Make Your Home Sparkle!

When placing yourself in the potential Buyer's shoes, you will want to consider the overall atmosphere of your home.  The importance of de-cluttering, cleanliness and smell can't be overemphasized.  Put away as many personal items and photographs as possible.  The Buyers need to see themselves living in your home; they should come in and feel comfortable, regardless of age, religion, or any other personal identifier.  A nice neutral atmosphere is preferable.

I will spend time with you making suggestions as to furniture placement, lighting ideas, etc.  In the meantime, this is a great list to look over. 

Smell:  A clean-smelling house creates a positive image in the Buyer's mind.  Be aware of any odors from cooking, cigarettes, pets, etc., that may have adverse affects on potential Buyers.

Color:  Be cautious selecting colors when painting or replacing carpeting.  The key is to promote your home to the largest segment of the buying market as possible.  Stay with neutral colors.

Lighting:  Take advantage of natural light as much as possible by cleaning windows, opening shades and drapes, etc.  Make sure to check every blind, curtain and drape for safety and ease of operation.  Be sure that all fixtures are clean and have functioning bulbs.

Furniture:  Arrange furniture to give the rooms as spacious a feeling as possible.  Remove furniture from rooms that are too crowded.  Avoid clutter, dispose of unneeded items, pack up anything smaller than a football!  Buyers will tour your home all the while thinking of how their own furniture and possessions will look in the home.

Dining Room:  Remove any furniture that doesn't belong there.  Consider adding fresh or silk flowers, or setting the table with an attractive arrangement.

Kitchen:  Avoid clutter—store small appliances whenever possible to maximize the appearance of work space.  Clean and organize all storage space. Sinks, cabinets, appliances, and counter tops should be clean and fresh.

Bathrooms:  Cleanliness is the key!  Make sure that all surfaces are spotless and remove non-skid decals that are in poor condition.  Replace worn or dirty shower curtains, clean and repair caulking, store all personal care products out of sight.  Repair any faucets that leak or do not function properly. Clear off counter tops.  Clean and organize all cabinets and drawers.  Shampoo throw rugs.  Bring out your best soaps and towels.  Add a plant for color and freshness.

Closets:  Empty closets of clothing you do not wear and pack for the move.  Organize closets to demonstrate the most efficient use of space.  Leave as few items as possible on the floor and on the shelves.

Appliances/Light Fixtures/Mirrors:  Clean, bright, sparkling and shiny!

Walls:  Check for peeling paint, loose wallpaper.  Pay attention to the areas around switchplates and doorways for fingerprints.

Floors:  Clean all wall-to-wall carpet and minimize area rugs.  Clean and polish wood, vinyl and tile floors.

Woodwork:  Clean and polish all woodwork.  Pay particular attention to the kitchen and bath cabinets.  Be sure to test all your drawers.  Also, be sure to check cabinet handles, hinges and catches as well.

Fireplace:  YES...there are a few in Pinecrest Florida!  Sweep and clean the fireplace.  Place a few logs on the grate to create an attractive appearance.

Garage:  Sweep and wash the floor to remove dirt and stains.  Organize tools, garden equipment, bicycles, etc.

Items not included in the sale:  Please remove, replace or point out to me any items such as chandeliers, fixtures, etc., that will not be included in the sale of the property.