With listing inventories up, there is more competition for your listing to sell. It is more important than ever to stage your homes. Some tips we have found to be helpful are:
Set up a staging appointment with the Seller. Bring a pad of paper and a pen to write a list of recommended staging tips that will help the Seller to sell their home for the most amount of money in the least amount of time.
Exterior-
Clean off the front door and the thresh hold. Touch up missing paint on door and trim.
Clear off dirt and spider webs on exterior of home.
Clean the windows.
Remove debris.
Clear off front and back porches and patio's.
Weed, trim and mow yard as needed.
Fresh bark in planting areas can liven up the yard
Note: It is amazing how a clean front door can set the stage for entering a home. Most Sellers do not take the time to do that.
Many Buyers drive by a home before previewing it. A nice presentation on the exterior can bring more showings.
Interior-
Remove the clutter
Remove and rearrange furniture as needed. (less is best)
Clear off counter tops, and tops of refrigerators.
Clear off coffee tables, nightstands, and dressers.
Clean floor coverings
Paint or touch up paint on walls, baseboards and doors. (neutral colors)
Clean whole house.
Replace or clean range burner plates. Clean oven.
Clean light fixtures and replace missing light bulbs.
Caulk bath tubs and showers.
Check for missing caulk around sinks and counters.
Note: It is hard for a Buyer to imagine their personal belongings fitting in a home if the Sellers are using all of the space. Check for unusual or disturbing odors. Sellers may need reminded to keep the kitty litter changed and to clean dirty dishes or dirty laundry.
So how do your listings look to the public? It may be wise to make an appointment to see for yourself. Find out what your competition is, and see what needs to be done to sell your listings.
The Williams Team at Windermere Real Estate is committed to providing professional real estate service to both Buyers and Sellers in the Walla Walla Valley. We are never too busy for any of your referrals.
Scott & Brenda Williams 
509.520.2351 202 S. First
509.520.7058 Walla Walla, WA 99362
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