Remember the five keywords to a quick sale: De-clutter, Repair, Update, Clean and De-personalize

Curb Appeal – as potential buyers arrive to view your home, outdoor areas are the first to create impressions. Your house number must be visible from the road and you should have a nice mail box. The garden must be neat, with trimmed lawn, orderly and colorful flowerbeds; trees and shrubs should be well trimmed and tidy. Clean all paths, walkways and driveways. Patio furniture must be dust free, add cushions, a few lanterns, pots with attractive plants and remove cobwebs on the patio area.

Walls, doors and windows - Fill in cracks and repaint tired looking walls, both interior and exterior. Prefer neutral colors and adjacent rooms should be painted in the same color to make them look more spacious. Paint any doors, windows and gates that have faded. Your front door should be welcoming. Make sure windows are spotless and torn screens replaced. Remove any personal portraits and photographs from your walls and add art that matches your décor.

Kitchen and Bathrooms - can often make a home look dated and if you are going to spend any time or money do it on these. They should be spotless, especially the tile grouting, around basins, tubs and the kitchen sink. Fix leaks and replace any broken toilet seats. Clear countertops of personal items in the bathroom and keep the kitchen countertops clear of clutter. Give the bathroom a luxurious feel by putting out a few good soaps, aromatic candles and fluffy towels. Old kitchen and bathroom cupboards can be modernized by painting them over or changing knobs.

The Rest of the House - Living areas must be neat and uncluttered. Keep your color scheme neutral and remove excessive furniture to give a feel of spaciousness. Strategically placed lamps will give rooms a welcoming glow. Display a few tasteful items on the coffee table; a few magazines, a board game or tea service. Set the dining room table with a good dinner service and let potential buyers get the feel of how it will be like to entertain.  Bedrooms should be neutrally decorated. Turn an unused bedroom into an interesting hobby room. Put personal items away and make sure that cupboards look more spacious. Remember that these areas must be clean and all carpets freshly washed.

Final touches - Change any burnt light bulb and all light switches must match and be wiped clean. Check that the doorbell works!

Included in my listing services is a walk-thru of your home and a discussion about staging for success. It’s never too early to have a smart conversation about selling your home. Give me a call when are in need of expertise!