Fully
preparing your home for sale can make a considerable
difference in the time it takes to sell it. You can help
eliminate buyer objections before they arise by making
necessary repairs and improvements, some of which are
suggested below.
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Outdoors
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Spruce up your garden and
lawn; trim shrubbery and replace dead plants. |
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Yard and patio should be
neat; outdoor furniture should be clean and in
good shape. |
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Clean or paint your front
door - remember first impressions last the
longest! |
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Manicure your front yard;
make sure your driveway and entryway are free of
clutter. |
Exterior
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Check that house numbers,
mailbox, and exterior lighting are all in good
condition. |
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Touch up with fresh paint
as needed. |
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Inspect chimney for cracks
or earthquake damage. |
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Repair loose trim, drain
pipes, and fencing. |
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Clean stains and window
screens. |
Garage
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Remove clutter and tidy up
the shelves. |
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Clean the floor. |
Living
Areas
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Apply fresh paint as
needed... think about brightening your interiors
with neutral-toned paint. |
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Clean draperies and
carpets. |
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Replace burnt out light
bulbs. |
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Clean the fireplace and
remove smoke stains from the wall and mantle. |
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Kitchen
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Sinks, appliances, and
counter tops should sparkle; remove any clutter. |
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Wax the floor. |
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Clean the oven, range, and
other appliances. |
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Clean tile and grout;
replace if necessary. |
Bathrooms
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Clean mirrors, glass,
chrome, and porcelain surfaces. |
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Replace shower curtain if
necessary. |
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Fix any faucet drips or
leaks. |
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Clean grout and caulking;
replace if necessary. |
Closets
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Doors and drawers should
open and close easily. |
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Remove clutter; tidy up
shelves and racks. |
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Shoes and clothes should be
neatly arranged. |
Overall
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Check the basics around the
house. It takes just a minute to check all
doors, windows and cabinets to make sure they
don't stick, squeak or are too loose. |
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Clean your furnace and
water heater so buyers know they are looking at
a house that has been well maintained. |
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