Curb Appeal
Does your house have curb appeal? Can you give it a little more pizzazz to draw the buyer in? Would a bit of touch-up paint add dollars to the sale? What about the garden? Is the lawn in order and neatly edged? Are trees and bushes neatly pruned? Are flowers in bloom? If not, it may be time for a garden upgrade. Adding colorful annuals to the front garden will make a big difference. Remember, creating curb appeal will add dollars to your house's final selling price.

Curb Appeal Checklist >

Welcome Home
As you walk through the door of your house, ask yourself, "Will this house say, 'Welcome home' to a buyer?" Looking through the eyes of a buyer, think of changes that will enhance sales appeal.

Try to eliminate anything that gives the appearance of clutter. Countertops should be free and clear. Knickknacks, souvenirs, family photos, refrigerator artwork - it's gone. You should try and "de-personalize" the house so buyers can imagine it as their home.

Closets and cupboards should appear large and roomy. It's time to make a donation to a local charity or store belongings at a friend's or family member's home.

Take a moment to repaint rooms as needed, change carpet, polish fixtures, clean windows and any other improvement that can easily be made to promote the sale.

Welcome Home Checklist >

Setting the Stage
Before the first buyer walks in your door, set the stage. You will want to engage the buyer's senses. Lighting is critical. Draw back curtains, open blinds, change light bulbs and add lighting where needed to welcome the buyer. Enhance the ambiance with music playing lightly in the background and insure a pleasing aroma emanates from every room.