1. Tidy up the grounds – porches – garage. Keep lawn trimmed and edged. Make sure that your yard is clean of refuse.
2. Your front door gives a vital first impression while a Realtor and prospect wait for you to answer the bell. Be sure it is scrubbed clean.
3. Dress up windows in freshly laundered curtains.
4. If any decoration is needed (especially kitchen) do it now! $20.00 worth of paint may balance $100.00 in a price cut. Bathrooms help sell homes. Make this room sparkle.
5. Keep all steps clear of hazards.
6. Don’t forget to have all light sockets filled with bulbs. Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyers will feel a glowing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening inspection.
7. Wash dishes, put away clothes, straighten up newspapers, etc.
8. Make up beds with attractive spreads.
9. Keep pets out of the way when showing. (One type of prospect is annoyed – the other gets attention diverted.)
10. Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house. Do not allow children to tag along on the visitors tour.
11. Leave showing your property up to your Realtor. It is her business to sell your home.
12. Don’t discuss anything concerning the sale with a customer. Let the Realtor discuss price, terms, possession, and other factors with the customer.
13. Never try to sell furniture to a customer. If you have furniture that you would like to sell with the home, tell your realtor.
14. Never apologize for appearance. It only accents or distracts.
