Detail. A few areas that deserve special attention:
- The kitchen. Think light and airy. Clear the counters, put small appliances in cabinets or the pantry. Wipe cabinet doors and drawers. Take down at least half the things decorating your refrigerator. Hopefully you’ve stored items that have been crowding your cabinets so they’ll appear roomy. People will look. You can’t pay too much attention to the kitchen.
Bathrooms. Get rid of mildew–including discolored caulking and stained shower curtains. Bleach tile grout. Check for dripping faucets, running toilets, leaks. Remove lime deposits and clean water spots from glass showers. Don’t forget to clear drains and vacuum exhaust fans.
Storage areas. Don’t underestimate the impact these spaces can have on prospective buyers. They should be decluttered with the rest of the house. Sweep them out, neaten what’s left, tend to any repairs needed. In the garage, remove oil stains from the floor.
The exterior. The ever-emphasized curb appeal is perhaps the most important. It gives the first impression, the initial image that buyers will immediately reject or choose to pursue. Edge the lawn, trim the shrubs, prune the trees. Weed and add new mulch. We also plant colorful annuals. Check the condition of any border and fencing materials. Sweep curbs, walkways and driveways. Give the front door a fresh coat of paint. Wash door windows and outdoor light fixtures. Remove cobwebs. Make sure all the bulbs work and railings are secure. If you have room, set out potted, flowering plants. Are there loose shutters? Does the trim need fresh paint? Is the mailbox in good shape? The house numbers? Rain gutters?
Is all of this really necessary?
It is. You’d be surprised how many people hold home sellers to a
