Get More Money for Your House

1.  "You never get a second chance to make a good first impression" . . .

• Is the lawn trimmed and edged?
• Are flowerbeds clear of leaves, weeds and grass?
• Is the appeal of the house enhanced by adequate flowers and mulch?
• Are lightposts, gas grills, outdoor lights, mailboxes, fences or basketball goals in good condition?
• Are children's objects removed, such as old swing sets, sandboxes, etc?
• Have any bare spots in the lawn, big holes, weeds or crabgrass been taken care of?
• Does the lawn have an overall manicured look?

2.  Your front door welcomes the prospect . . .

A seasonal door decoration adds a warm, inviting touch.

• Is the door clean, or would a coat of paint be helpful?
• Are light fixtures, door knockers and doorknobs in good condition?
• Does the doorbell work?
• Are storm doors in good condition?
• Is the front step/porch in good repair?

3.  Decorating helps assure top dollar and a quick sale. . .

A little Liquid Gold does wonders for scratched and dry-looking wood.

• Are walls clean?
• Has any "hard to decorate around" or outdated wallpaper been removed and the walls painted?
• Are all nail holes filled in the walls?
• Are there any tiles, shelves, metal brackets, plant brackets, stickers, graphics, murals or makeshift cabinets that should be removed?
• Should ceiling be textured to cover flaws?
• Are switchplates clean?

4.  Clean windows show the bright side of your home . . .

Let the prospective buyer see how cheerful your home can be.

• Have curtains and draperies been opened to highlight walls and ceilings?
• Will window coverings appeal to the general public?
• Do sheers cover all windows facing the street?

5.  A clean kitchen is a must . . .

Many buyers judge the housekeeping by the oven and the stove.

• Is the interior of the oven, stove and dishwasher stain-free?
• Have the cabinets been cleared of all but essential items?
• Are the countertops clean and free of clutter?
• Is the countertop stained? (Baking soda is good for removing stains and will not mar the finish.)

6.  Sparkling bathrooms help sell your home . . .

• Spick and Span throughout is the way to judge the bathrooms.
• Are the shower doors, ceramic tiles and grouting clean and free of soap film?
• Are fixtures polished and free of water marks?
• Have appliques in the tub been removed?
• Is lighting adequate?
• Does the toilet seat need to be replaced?
• Is the exhaust fan working?  Is is quiet?
• Window available?  Open it and let the fresh air in.

7.  Avoid cluttered appearances . . .

• Perhaps now's the time to plan a garage sale.
• Do you have excess furniture that makes rooms appear cramped?
• Are newspapers, toys and other articles picked up?
• Is the stairway clear?  This is essential!

8.  Make the closets look as large as possible . . .

• Remove or pack items that can be stored elsewhere.
• Is the closet neat and well organized?
• Are wall surfaces in need of paint?
• Is shelving and hardware in good repair?
• If the closets have lights, are bulbs bright?
• Do closet doors operate smoothly and quietly?

9.  From top to bottom . . .

• Remove all unnecessary items.
• Have you checked the garage and other utility space and removed all excess items?
• Are the walls dark and dull?  If so, they can easily be brightened with a coat of paint?
• Do all lights work?  Are they bright enough?
• Are window areas clean and sealed properly?
• Are window wells free of debris?
• Is floor covering in good condition?
• Are steps and handrails in need of paint or repair?

10.  Check major appliances . . .

• A little correction could be worth a good many dollars.
• Is the furnace filter clean?
• Is the attic fan running quietly?
• Is the exterior of the water heater clean?
• Is water heater in good condition?  Drain a pail of water from the heater to remove rust particles.
• Does furnace work properly?
• When was air conditioning system checked?
• Does air filter work properly?  Is it clean?
• Do kitchen appliances work properly?  (Dishwasher, range, disposal, exhaust, refrigerator, oven)
• Does garage door opener work properly and quietly?

11.  Minor flaws suggest neglect to the prospect . . .

• Have them fixed to get top dollar for your house.
• Do the screen doors close tightly?
• If property has a storage shed, is it in good condition?
• Are gutters and downspouts in good repair?
• Do gutters drain away from the house?
• Is roof in good repair?
• Are hardwood floors in excellent condition?

  Copyright 2008 - Pinnacle Real Estate Services, LLC a Mississippi Corporation