David Blockhus
CRS, GRI, MBA

Buyers look for homes, not houses, and they buy the home in which they would like to live. Owners who fail to make the necessary repairs, who don’t spruce up the house inside and out, touch up the paint and landscaping, and keep it neat and clean chase buyers away.

New homes enjoy a marketing edge over most resale homes because they are impeccably well kept. Builders enhance their appeal by offering model homes that are clean, bright, pleasantly decorated in current colors and amenities. Our goal is to make your home as close to a model home as possible. Remember there is nothing like a good first impression to drive a sale. If your home’s first impression is negative, that will be reflective in the sales price. Try to look at your home’s condition as if you were the buyer.

"Showcasing" your home to a buyer can make a considerable difference in the value and eventual sales price of your home. Proper preparation can also decrease the time it takes to sell your property. Listed below are a few simple suggestions for giving your home that added appeal.

Exterior

• Yard and lawn should be neatly manicured. Keep trees and shrubs pruned. Plants in bloom add appeal.
• Pick up lawn tools, toys and newspapers; sweep front walkway.
• Clear driveway and steps of debris, stains and paint.
• Apply fresh paint as needed and replace damaged bricks or wood siding.
• Make sure faucets and sprinkler system are in good working order.
• Install new door numbers or house fixtures.
• If you have a pool, be sure it is clean. Keep the patio area neat and yard furniture in good repair.
• Clean up after pets.

Interior

• Apply fresh paint as needed.
• Drapes and carpets should be clean.
• Clean the oven stove top, refrigerator, cabinets and sink.
• Electric systems and plumbing should be in good working order.
• Repair any cracked or broken windows and screens.
• Clean windows inside and out.
• Clean closets of excess items and debris.
• Remove all unnecessary items from the garage and keep the floor clean and shelves tidy. If necessary, rent an off-sight storage facility.
• Pick up toys and shoes; make beds and put clothes away.
• Tidy up bathrooms and check caulking around tubs and showers.
• Dust the furniture and vacuum carpets; straighten rugs and empty wastebaskets.
• Prepare tables with flowers and place settings; set out a board game or "coffee table" book.
• Open drapes and shades and turn on the lights in every room to make the house look bright and cheerful.
• Periodically open windows to freshen rooms.
• Turn off the television and play soft background music.
• Keep the home at a comfortable temperature.
• Keep pets out of the way. Make sure all pet areas are clean and free of odor.