Real Estate Guide

Merchandising Tips    [DOWNLOAD A PDF VERSION OF THIS PAGE]

Look at your property through the eyes of a potential buyer seeing it for the first time. Would you find it appealing? Would you buy it? If no, why not? First impressions are lasting. Walk outside and look at your home from the street. Drive up to your home. See anything that needs attention? Use this checklist to see if there might be some items you could tend to that could increase the appeal of your property:

• Keep lawn and shrubbery trimmed and free of clutter
• Keep beds weeded and mulched and planters filled or stored
• Be sure porches are tidy and clean. Place a plant on the porch
• Scrub and paint your front door if needed
• Paint and repair where needed - inside and out
• Clean everything in sight
• Be sure soiled curtains and area rugs or carpets are clean
• Make beds with attractive spreads
• Keep your kitchen sink shining and free of dirty dishes
• Clean your oven and range
• Make your kitchen look warm and inviting, not hectic
• Unclutter countertops, except for decorative items
• Be sure your bathrooms sparkle and are uncluttered
• Fix dripping faucets and free up slow drains
• Fix broken doorbells, tighten knobs, oil any squeaks
• Create space by storing extra furniture
• Remove clutter from closets and cupboards
• Make efforts to make home free of pet and cooking odors
• Have adequate lighting, replace dim bulbs with brighter ones

THIS IS A GOOD TIME TO DONATE EXTRAS TO GOOD WILL!