I recently posted an article Getting Ready to Sell - Home Staging Tips.  Part 1 dealt with beginning the decluttering and packing process.  Now, on to part two: cleaning, repairs and painting.

Clean, clean and clean some more

When putting your home on the market to sell, it needs to be cleaner than it has ever been.  Remember the old white glove test?  Your home should be able to pass with flying colors.  A clean house gives the impression that it has been well cared for.  When potential buyers see scuffed floors, dirty door jambs and fingerprints on the walls, it gives the impression that the property has not been maintained.  More dirt = less $$$.

Here are some often overlooked items that need to be sparkling clean:

•·         Ceiling fans, including the light bulbs

•·         Baseboards

•·         Windowsills

•·         Switchplate covers

•·         Cabinet doors

•·         Windows and sliding glass doors

Make those repairs!

You know the ones....that leaky faucet you've been meaning to fix; that squeaky door that needs some WD40; the missing knob on the kitchen cabinet.  No more procrastination!  In a buyer's market such as we are experiencing today, these small things can cause a potential purchaser to move on to the next house on their long list of available properties.  Don't put these off for a minute longer - it can mean the difference between selling your home or not.   

In living color

Is your paint chipped, dingy or a very custom color?  Repainting a room in a neutral color is the fastest, easiest, least expensive way to brighten it up and make it look more appealing.  Ask the local paint store for the best selling tan or beige color and bring a room up to date in an afternoon.  Have a painting party!  Invite your friends.  You supply the pizza and drinks (and paint, of course) and get the job done and have fun at the same time.

Coming soon...

Watch for part 3 of this series, coming soon.  Now get cleaning!

Your West Bank Real Estate Specialist