Preparing Your Home to Sell

JUDGING A BOOK BY ITS COVER

Prospective buyers begin judging your home from the time they pull up outside. First impressions are key, so make sure you show the exterior of your home a little TLC.

• Mow and rake the lawn, trim hedges, weed, and edge any gardens
• Sweep the sidewalks and driveway, and pick up any litter
• Plant extra flowers for colour or place potted plants at the front door
• Clean or paint the front door, polish the front door hardware, and ensure the doorbell works
• Before the home is photographed, ensure the driveway/front of home is free of vehicles and garage/recycling bins are out of site

 

THE STORY WITHIN

Potential buyers need to be able to picture themselves, their family members, and their belongings in your space. They're anxious to see how the story of their lives will play out in your home, so it's important to keep it clean and clutter free.

• Keep the entryway, halls, and stairs clear, storing any excess furniture
• Brighten the interior with a fresh coat of paint in a light, neutral tone
• Ensure all lightbulbs are working
• Shampoo the carpets and clean the floors
• Remove any small appliances from the kitchen countertops for a clutter-free surface
• Remove any magnets and pictures from the refrigerator surface
• Clean kitchen countertops, cabinets, appliances, washer and dryer
• Clean out and organize closets, so they appear larger
• Clean the bathrooms, minimize clutter, and put out fresh towels
• Esure windows and mirrors are clean
• Clean out and organize basement and garage
• Perform any necessary minor repairs and touch ups to walls, windows, fixtures, etc.

 

LEAVE IT TO THE PROFESSIONALS

Professional home stagers know how to make your home appealing to the highest number of potential buyers. That's why staged homes sell faster and, often, for more money. Home staging is particularly beneficial if you're planning to sell an unfurnished property.