Pre-Market Prep
1. Paint
Nothing makes a home look newer faster than a fresh coat of paint. It’s an instant cure for an outdated look. Keep the colors light and neutral because they gave greater appeal and can make small rooms seem larger.
2. Clean and brighten
Have your carpets professionally shampooed to help eliminate odors caused by smoking or pets. Clean all windows and make sure all light bulbs work. Consider installing higher wattage bulbs in some lamps to create a lighter, brighter room. Open all curtains and let the sun shine in! Dark and dreary rooms do not appeal to most home-buying prospects
3. Reduce clutter
Everyone has clothing that hasn’t been worn in years. Dig in and select those items that you can donate or discard. If your rooms have too much furniture, maybe it’s time for a garage sale or to put some things in storage.
4. Organize the kitchen
You’ll be surprised by the amount of space you can create by clearing the counters and adding drawer organizers. Store seldom-used small appliances in an out-of-the-way place. .
5. Update the bath
If cleaning and painting isn’t enough to spruce up a dull bath, replacing the vanity and sink could be an inexpensive solution. Also, consider installing new floor covering or resurfacing a stained tub.
6. Repair a wet basement
Simply installing covers over window wells or moving a downspout may eliminate your problem. If you need more extensive repairs, and you’re not able to make them, be prepared to explain the problem to a buyer. Never try to cover up the signs of a wet basement.
7. Make minor repairs
Tighten loose knobs, fix leaky faucets, lubricate squeaky hinges, clean out clogged drains, replace dirty filters, secure loose shingles, fix holes in screens, replace broken panes and remove stains. Discolored, rust-stained sinks are also warning signs, they should be properly cleaned and sparkling.
8. Create a grand entrance
Paint your front door with a bright color, add brass accents such as house numbers, a doorknob or kick-plate. Prune your bushes and add colorful blooming plants to help make a good first impression.
9. Repair a leaky roof
One tiny water stain on the ceiling not only looks bad, it will cause buyers to question the condition of the entire roof. Fix the source of the leak and repair any damage cause to the ceiling.
10. Exterminate
Call in a professional to rid your home of insects such as termites, ants, wasps and cockroaches. Repair any damage caused by insects. Remember that it will take a few days for the pesticide odor to clear.
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