THINGS I WANT YOU TO KNOW ABOUT.....

There are things I want you to know about getting your home ready to sell.  There are so many things to think about, but making the BEST, first impression is paramount.  So here are a few guidelines to follow:

OUTSIDE        

Make the exterior a lasting first impression

*Keep the lawn trimmed and edged
*Weed and cultivate flower gardens
*Trim shrubs and eliminate dead trees or branches
*Pick up any debris, toys and lawn equipment
*Repair any fences and gates and give them a fresh coat of paint or stain if necessary
*Have the exterior clean and attractive, the roof in good repair, and the gutters and downspouts in good      condition
*Have the exterior driveway and sidewalk professionally washed
*Replace any cracked windows and torn screens
*Make the entrance-way clean and inviting
*Be sure the doorbell works
*Wash down the mailbox and porch light, sweep the porch

INSIDE

Make your house sparkle and shine

*Walls should be clean and free of smudges, fingerprints and dents
*Consider a fresh coat of paint, if a good washing doesn't work
*Inspect woodwork and wallpaper for areas that need attention
*Arrange furniture to make each room appear more spacious and attractive
*If a piece of furniture is badly worn, store it temporarily in the attic, basement or a storage unit
*Wash windows and sills until sparkling clean
*Curtains and drapes should be freshly laundered
*Shampoo rugs and carpets
*Floors should be waxed or squeaky clean
*Repair loose doorknobs, sticking doors and windows
*Fix leaky faucets and eliminate stains on sinks and counter tops
*Tighten loose stair banisters and be sure steps are free of clutter
*Light fixtures should be in good repair
*Replace discolored or cracked switch and outlet plates
*Clean out closets to display their roominess
*Be sure clothes are hung neatly and shoes and other objects are tidily arranged
*Bathrooms should be sparkling clean with no stains or mildew
*Repair the caulking in tubs and showers
*If necessary, replace shower curtain and set out fresh towels
*Bedrooms should appear neat with attractive spreads and curtains
*Remove any clutter (including wall posters) from kids rooms
*Use packing boxes to clean up the basement, attic and garage
*The kitchen should be especially clean and dishes put away
*Clear the fireplace of ashes
*Make sure the garbage is always taken out
*If you have pets, keep litter boxes, cages and kennels clean 
*If you are a smoker, consider, smoking outside to keep the house more odor free