Remember, a home that looks unkempt will often result in a buyer believing that the home has not been cared for. In that event, if the buyer does offer to purchase your home, it is generally with a reduced price in mind.

Review this list as you walk through your home:

• Clear all but necessary objects from furniture pieces and countertops.
• Rearrange or possibly remove some of the furniture and wall hangings, if necessary. This is very important, as an overcrowded room appears smaller than it is and doesn't allow the buyers to mentally envision their own furniture in the room. Having removed any wall hangings, remember to patch and paint. Clean carpeting, window treatments and windows.
• Make sure that all appliances are in good working order.
• Clean out and organize closets and other storage areas. Show, by example, that your home has the storage space that the potential buyers need.
• Clean out the fireplace and fill with fresh logs.
• Clear the yard, driveway, deck, patio and garage of clutter.
• Evaluate the exterior of the house. Does it need repainting? Are the windows in good condition and caulked sufficiently? Are the gutters free of debris?
• Consider the landscaping around the perimeter of the house. Does the yard need weeding? Do the bushes and trees need pruning? Remove any dead plants or shrubs. If necessary, fertilize. Keep the lawn freshly cut.

Remember, first impressions can turn a buyer on or off, but never both!

©2002 Marge Harris. Publication or use of this article on or off-line without written permission from Marge Harris is prohibited. If you would like to use Marge's articles on your Web site or in your publication, just email Marge for details!

Email Marge
info@margeharris.com
www.MargeHarris.com

RE/MAX Center 100 N. Atkinson Road, Suite 106 Grayslake, IL 60030 PH: 847-223-7878 ~ 800-25REMAX FAX: 847-223-1703

©1998-2007 margeharris.com
[ Site Disclaimer ][ Privacy Statement ]