Let Us Help You Sell Your Property

As the old adage goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This is extremely true with property sales. Strong curb appeal can go a long way toward making up for other shortcomings. Don’t forget the back, too. A well-manicured front and a neglected back will make buyers wonder where else you may be cutting corners. To enhance your property’s exterior and curb appeal, check the following and repair as necessary:

• Have any lawn edged, cut short and watered, and make arrangements to have this done weekly while the property is on the market
• The same goes for trimming the hedges, weeding the lawn, weeding the flowerbeds, and pruning any trees – in front of the property AND behind
• Check the foundation, steps, walkways, walls, and patios for cracks and crumbling
• Inspect doors and windows for peeling paint and touch up where needed
• Clean and align gutters
• Repair and replace loose or damaged roof shingles
• Repair and repaint loose siding and caulking
• Clear walks of falling leaves and other plant debris as needed
• Re-seal an asphalt driveway
• Keep gates, storage areas and garage doors closed
• Remove boats, RVs and unused cars from the property
• Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door and new hardware, if necessary

Now that you’ve improved your property’s curb appeal, don’t disappoint with the interior. A few simple “touches” and “polishes” will further translate into favorable impressions and higher offers. To enhance the interior, check the following and make changes as needed:

• Thoroughly clean every nook and cranny, and remove all clutter
• Arrange for a professional service to clean every 1-2 weeks while the property is on the market
• Rarely used Items should be packed and moved offsite
• Mend cracks, leaks and signs of dampness in the attic and basement
• Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster, wallboard, wallpaper, paint and tiles
• Consider painting dingy, soiled or strongly colored walls with a neutral shade of paint, such as beige or off-white. Paint the ceiling and trim white for a sharp and clean contrast. Neutral colors make rooms appear larger. The same strategy should be applied to floor coverings that you replace
• Replace broken or cracked windowpanes, moldings and other woodwork
• Inspect and repair your plumbing, heating, cooling and alarm systems
• Repair dripping faucets and showerheads
• Buy and display showy, new towels in the bathroom(s) and kitchen; add silk flower arrangements in building lobby and bathrooms
• If the kitchen needs major updating, give it a lift with new cabinet hardware, new curtains or shades and/or a coat of paint

The fewer things, the larger the space looks. Consider renting off-site storage for extra belongings while your property is on the market. Remember, buyers will also ask to see the garage and storage areas. Stuffing areas to the rafters gives buyers the impression that the property is too small.

Hold your moving sale BEFORE you put your property on the market.

Many TV and online shows have been created aimed at getting properties ready for sale. Check them out for additional ideas and information.