The following items should be read and studied carefully. Much care should be taken in preparation of your home for market. We would like to emphasize that it is very important to accomplish as much as possible prior to placing your home on the market. First impressions are extremely important!

Make sure everything about your property appears as close as you reasonably can to "new, neat, clean and neutral"! Homes that are decorated in unusual colors (black, red, dark blue, purple, etc) attract few buyers. If possible, paint all walls and ceilings a neutral white, off-white or light tan color. If not too expensive, make sure all carpets are a neutral color. This allows the prospective buyer to better visualize their special items and furnishings in the rooms of your home. Neutral colors give the appearance of spaciousness. A little (or a lot) of paint, a bit of wallpaper, and/or a carpet replaced can make a difference in attracting that "one buyer"... and costs very little.

Make certain your home is absolutely clean and free of any unpleasant odors- especially any animal odors. Most people love their pets, but pets can be, and often are a real "turn off" to prospective buyers. Remove your animals when you are showing your home. Many people feel threatened by a strange barking dog.

The following are a list of items to assist you in the preparation of your home for sale:

• Make sure all light fixtures have working light bulbs.
• Ensure the doorbell work and the mailbox is in good repair.
• Oil any squeaky hinges and see that all windows open easily.
• Wash all windows, inside and out. Clean dirt and dust from window sills.
• Make sure carpets are clean. Have carpet areas stretched and curling edges tacked down if needed.
• Have all bathroom and kitchen counters free of clutter & looking immaculate. Repair dripping faucets.
• During the day, have all curtains pulled open to maximize natural outdoor light. At night, have lights turned on.
• Provide adequate lighting in basements, attics and closets.
• Keep rooms and closets neat, uncluttered and spacious looking. Have furniture arranged to maximize a look of spaciousness in every room.
  
  

• Clean and repair storm windows. Remove screens during the winter. They will last longer and let more light in.
• Seal and repair any foundation or driveway cracks.
• Foundation vents- make sure they are intact and clean.
• Roof- remove any debris and nail down any loose shingles.
• Gutters and Downspouts- clean and repair holes and any separations from eaves.
• Windows- check for loose caulk, chipped paint, broken or cracked windows.
• Make sure all outdoor lighting works.
• Trim overgrown shrubs and have all landscaping in top condition.
• Plant blooming flowers in flower beds, if season permits.
• Care for lawn of nearby vacant properties and common areas.
• Insects- better that you discover and remove them than your buyer. Look for telltale signs in all wooded areas.
• Remove any firewood or lumber that is near or against the house. This is a breeding ground for termites. Home inspectors will report this as a discrepancy and will recommend that you treat the property for termite infestation.
• Look for standing water in the crawlspace. This is indicative of improper drainage, a broken water line, or more. Corrective action will need to be taken before the property is placed on the market for sale.