Make a Good First Impression!
Tips to Spiff Up your Home
by: Luly Reinhardt
Listen to what your agent suggests. If they don't offer any suggestions, make sure you ask their opinion. They most likely have represented buyers at one point. These buyers make comments. A good agent will remember what they hear. They are passing this knowledge on to you!
  • Maximize space by eliminating clutter and unnecessary furniture. Keep the children's toys put away. Rent a storage unit if necessary.

  • Organize and de-clutter your closets and cabinets. Refold towels and linens. Keep heavy items at the bottom to give the illusion of more space.

  • Turn on all lights day and night. Make sure that light bulbs and fixtures are clean and free of dust to further brighten your home.

  • Open all window coverings to allow more light to shine in. Make sure that you clean your windows!

  • Keep your home dusted and vacuumed.

  • Remove all smoke and pet odors. Try placing a pan of water with a few drops of vanilla on the stove to simmer. Or bake a batch of cookies or cinnamon rolls before a showing. Use a neutral air freshener, if necessary, not a flowery or pine scent.

  • Make sure all beds are made.

  • Clean your kitchen and remove all grease from range hoods, ovens, stovetops, and walls.

  • Maximize your countertops by putting away small appliances.

  • Clean your carpets if necessary.

  • Make sure that the doorbell works and your front doormat is in good shape. Buy a new one if necessary. Make sure that the lock is in working order and doors open easily. Polish all doorknobs, doorknockers, exterior lamps, mailboxes, address numbers, etc. The front door is the first impression. Make sure it shines!

  • Remove excess extension cords and exposed wires.

  • Touch up any areas on the walls that have been knicked. Putty in any exposed holes.

  • Keep the yard mowed, leaves picked up, landscape beds weeded. Eliminate any dying plants.

  • Prune shrubs if needed.

  • Make sure that hoses and other garden equipment are kept neatly out of sight.

  • Outdoor furniture should be kept clean.

  • Make sure no toys are left in the yard.

  • Sweep any sidewalks, patios, balconies, or steps.

  • Keep trashcans covered and out of site.

Print this page to keep as a checklist!


More Articles
What to Ask Your Realtor Before You List Your Home
by: Rick Walters
What is the Closing?
by: Judy Marlowe
Preparing the offer
by Mary Jo Ridenour
Home Inspection 101
by: Walt Douglas
Why do I need a realtor when I have the Internet?
by: Dennis Brothers

RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS
420 Hurstbourne Parkway,
Suite 104
Louisville, KY 40222
Get Directions

Phone: 502-423-1331
Fax: 502-339-1712
Toll Free: 1-800-426-1311

MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
Phone: 502-425-8519 or 502-423-0386
Fax: 502-423-0493

©2003 RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS, All Rights Reserved.