Mow lawn, edge sidewalks and driveway, trim bushes and trees
Sweep off the sidewalks and porches (hose down in summer)
Haul accumulated debris from the yard and garage off the property
Set out a few planters of mature, season appropriate flowers (can be purchased from a local nursery or home improvement store)
Reduce number of extra cars parked at house
Interior (Maximize Spaciousness)
Pick-up all clothes, and newspapers
Pick-up toys, stacks of magazines
Make all beds
Make sure all light bulbs work
Wash the dishes and put them away; reduce clutter on the counter
Put out fresh kitty litter and clean any pet areas
Clean the bathrooms and wash the mirrors
Clean the carpeting
Minimize holiday decorations – less is more – a little goes a long way
Put away all medicines
Prior to Showing the House (Realtor, Appraiser, Inspector or Buyer)
Turn all lights on in every room
Keep TV or music on low volume so it is not a distraction
Keep children occupied and in one room if possible
Secure pets, muzzle if necessary – in garage or off property is better
Prepare the list of amenities you enjoy about the house and neighborhood, include improvements you have completed
Give the guest (agent, appraiser, buyer) space to think as they look at the property; this is difficult for many people but let your house do most of the talking for you. The closer you hang to the guest and the more you talk the faster you will push them through the house and out the door; the longer they are there the more comfortable they become to consider your property their own property.
Be prepared for the last minute showing – be prepared to not turn away any showings
Place a binder of pictures of the home on the counter to demonstrate summer landscaping
Additional Items to Consider in Concert with Realtor Advice
Neutralize the interior of the home with a fresh coat of neutral paint
Replace worn carpeting with inexpensive new carpeting and a good pad
