Pannell Real Estate, Inc.

In today’s market, the home that stands out among similarly-priced houses is the home that sells.  Why?  Because it makes a good first impression that lasts all the way to the settlement table.

 

You may not be able to improve the market value of your home (additions, remodels, etc.), but you can improve its marketability.  Usually, this can be done with simple elbow grease.  Here are some tips to help you make your home more appealing to prospective buyers.

 

The exterior

Start here with “curb appeal.”  A trimmed lawn and well-proportioned shrubs will let a prospective buyer know that this is a well-maintained home.  Remove items such as garden hoses, lawn tools, dog houses, and toys from the yard.  Check for flat-fitting roof shingles; straight lines on gutters, shutters, windows, and siding; solid caulking around frames and seams; and paint.  Keep walkways and steps free of clutter.  Add a splash of color to your beds with some colorful flowers. 

 

The foyer

Impression and appearance of the foyer area gives the prospective buyer a hint of what is to come.  Plenty of light in this area is important.  If there is no natural light, a nice lamp or overhead fixture with a stronger light bulb is key.  For evening appointments, turn on every light in the house for a welcoming glow.  Make sure the house smells fresh and clean.  Make sure that the woodwork is unmarred and the carpeting spotless.  A fresh coat of paint is a good investment, and it’s most appealing in a neutral tone, since strong color is so subjective.  Remove unsightly or worn throw rugs.  Make sure the door bell and deadbolts are operational.

 

The living room

Strive for a lived-in, cozy feeling.  Discard worn, chipped, or frayed furniture.  Open all curtains and blinds.  Furnishings here and throughout the house should be well placed and in good repair.  Set out fresh flowers, and even put a drop of bath oil or vanilla on light bulbs for a subtle scent.

 

The kitchen

Many buyers judge the house by the way the oven and stove are kept.  Appliances should be spotless and in perfect working condition.  Replace or repair anything that sticks, squeaks, or drips.  Counter, cooking, cabinet, and eating spaces should be kept open and uncluttered, without countertop appliances. 

 

The master bedroom

This is the second-most appealing room to the prospective buyer.  Strive to un-clutter furnishings and define areas by furniture arrangement.  Show the true size of closets by removing or packing items that can be stored, like off-season clothes.  Closets are the first place prospective buyers will look, so make sure they are neat and orderly.

 

Bathrooms

Practicality combines with attractiveness.  Sink, toilet, bathtub, tile, and even shower curtains should be immaculate.  Everyday you leave your home, you should anticipate an appointment.  Fix leaky faucets—rust stains indicate faulty plumbing.  Repair caulk and grouting.  Minor flaws suggest neglect to the prospective buyer.  Light should be soft, but bright.

 

The recreation room

An atmosphere of relaxation, fun, and activity should permeate.  Create open space to accommodate an assortment of activities.  Make sure the fireplace or wood stove is clean, with fresh logs.

 

The garage

Convenience is the key here (the perfect garage holds only cars).  Use bright fluorescent lighting.  Sell, giveaway, or toss unnecessary articles.  Clean oily cement floors, uncluttered space, orderly storage, and a tidy workbench will improve the look of your garage.

 

The basement

Organize, hang tools on peg boards, and put items on shelves.  Cure damp smell by placing a bag of limestone in damp areas.  Flush water heater, change the furnace filter, and make inspection access easy.  Brighten the basement by painting walls.

 

The attic

Yes, it’s for sale too.  Tidy it up and light it up.  Again, pack anything you are going to move.  Get rid of the rest.  Be sure your energy-saving insulation is apparent and the air vent works.