Important Suggestions That May Get You a Higher Price & Quicker Sale

1. Clear all stairways for easy access and to avoid cluttered appearance.
2. Clean basement and garage areas. Remove unnecessary articles.
3. Put closets in order. Remove some of the clothing will make them appear larger. Clear counter tops.
4. Keep lawns and shrubs neatly trimmed and leaves raked. In winter keep driveway and walks shoveled. Since the exterior of your home will be the first things the prospective buyer sees, it is important to create a good first impression.
5. Create a great "first impression" by applying a fresh coat of paint to worn steps, porches, and basement stairs. Also if needed paint walls off white or beige. Make sure door to home is painted and in good condition and screen door in good repair.
6. Make a room or hallway look larger by removing extra pieces of furniture.
7. Take care of little things like burned out light bulbs, loose door knobs, sticking or squeaking doors, faulty light switches, etc. They may seem small but such little things hinder a sale.
8. When the agent is coming in the evening, all lights should be turned on to give the rooms a larger appearance and a cheerful effect. Also the agent won't be fumbling for lights.
9. Please turn off the television and turn down loud music while a home is being shown. Loud and wild music causes distractions.
10. Dogs and other pets should be controlled. They tend to distract prospective purchasers, or they may be allergic to them.
11. It is a distinct advantage to show the property when the owner is not present. We recognize your enthusiasm and willingness to help, but statistics show that more homes are sold when the owner is not present. Prospective buyers feel more at ease. The salesperson knows the buyers requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when you don't follow along. You will be called upon if needed. Allow showings at all reasonable times without unreasonable restrictions. If it is impossible for you to leave during showings be courteous, but don't force conversation with the potential buyer. They want t inspect your house...not pay a social call.
12. Maintain your home as if friends were coming to visit. This is the best way to sell your home for the maximum amount of money and the least amount of time. If you don't have time, hire someone. This is an investment, not a cost. You may get a higher sale price, or assist in a quicker sale.
13. Fix leaky faucets, eliminate water discoloration in the sinks, and replace broken windows if possible. Placing deodorizing plug-in room fresheners in each room is also helpful.
14. In some counties a well and septic test "must" be done before transferring title. If you are in a position to have a test completed right away, it would let us deal with any problems at the beginning instead of holding up closing.
15. Walk around your home as if you were a buyer...what would your first impression be?
16. Don't talk price or terms regarding your property. Let your listing agent do the negotiating for you.