Curbside Appeal
"Curbside appeal" refers to the first impression that your house makes on potential buyers. Tidy the grounds, porches and garage to hide all clutter from view. If you have a lawn, make sure the grass is trimmed and edged. Not only can curbside appeal make a lasting impression on the buyer; it can affect whether the real estate professional will return with other clients as well.
The Entryway
The entryway can set the right tone with a trim,
attractive door, decorative welcome mat or other
thoughtful accent pieces. In Spring and Summer,
consider placing an oversized pot bursting with
flowers and greenery near the doorway. In Fall
or Winter, consider a tasteful dried wreath to
welcome prospective homebuyers.
Make
a Visual Impact!
From the doorway looking into your home, what
first draws your eye? Make sure it's eye-catching,
whether a piece of artwork, a cozy fire burning
in the fireplace or the windows opening to a stunning
view of the backyard.
Cleanliness
Matters
A clean house is imperative. Make the beds, put
away the dishes, tidy the closets and take out
the trash. The kitchen and bathroom should shine!
(These two rooms can sell a home.) You want to
present a home that buyers can imagine themselves
moving into the next day.
Lighting
Lighting helps make a house look spacious show
it off to best effect. During the day, leave the
curtains open to let in as much natural light
as possible, and don't hesitate to leave lights
on throughout the house. For evening showings,
this is a must! Combining overhead lights with
table top lamp can create a warm, richly-textured
glow. Accent lighting can also draw attention
to elements you want to emphasize.
Eliminate
All Negative Odors
Your home should be free of any odors, whether
smoke (a definite deal-killer), pet odors or even
strong, chemical smells from cleaning agents.
Keep
Pets Out of the Way
If have dogs, consider taking them along with
you. If not feasible, make sure they're secured
in the backyard or outdoor pen.
Clear
Out!
Let the real estate agent do the selling. Your
presence can make the buyer nervous and induce
them to spend less time - not more - touring your
home.