WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP SELL YOUR HOME

• Reduce the clutter. Sort through closets, cupboards, and storage areas; toss what you can, organize the rest. If your rooms are filled to excess, put some pieces of furniture in storage while you sell your home. Likewise, park a camper, boat or an extra car at another location if possible.
• Clean. Shampoo carpets and polish hardwood floors. Be especially aware of household odors caused by smoking. Focus on kitchen, bathroom, windows and light fixtures.
• Paint. Light neutral colors have a broader appeal and can make small rooms seem larger and airier. If you have wild or dated wallpaper, remove the paper and paint the walls. Fill nail holes and caulk before painting.
• Lighten up. Install the brightest light bulbs you can especially in dark areas and basement. Try to make basement as open and bright as possible.
• Carpet. Remove worn, soiled or odd colored carpet to show hardwood floors or replace with new. Again light and neutral is your best choice.
• Make Minor repairs. Tighten loose knobs, fix leaky faucets, lubricate squeaky hinges, clean out clogged drains, replace dirty filters, secure loose shingles, fix holes in screens & replace broken panes.
• Repair a leaky roof. One tiny water stain on the ceiling will cause buyers to question the entire roof. Fix the source of the leak, then repair any damage caused to the ceiling.
• Repair a wet basement. The problem can be as easy to fix as installing covers over window wells. If the moisture problem calls for more extensive repairs and you are not able to make them, be prepared to explain the problem to the buyer. Never try to cover up the signs of a wet basement.
• Organize the kitchen. Clean off the counters. Add drawer organizers to suggest efficient use of space. (manufactured units are widely available) Store seldom-used small appliances and large baking pans.
• Update the bath. If cleaning and paint can't overpower a dingy bath, consider replacing the vanity and sink, installing a new floor covering, or resurfacing a stained bathtub.
• Dress up the front entrance. Add a fresh coat of paint on the door, and/or brass accents such as house numbers, doorknob, and kickplate. Blooming plants can help your home make a good first impression. Keep sidewalks shoveled, grass cut, and bushes pruned. If you have pets try to watch where buyers may walk outside.
• For Showings turn lights on and open blinds and drapes. Welcoming soft music and fresh flowers can also be a nice touch.