maximising first impressions

Exterior and curb appeal

Experts say most buyers make their decision at first sight.

General Exterior:

• Prospective buyers will react well to signs your home has been meticulously maintained.
• Landscaping: mow, edge and water lawn, trim hedges, weed and fertilize flowerbeds, and prune trees.
• Keep driveway clean and free of parked cars, and keep the garage door closed.
• Repair or replace loose or damaged roof tiles if applicable.
• Minimize cracks or crumbling on walkways, walls, or steps, and keep them clean and free of obstruction like toys.
• Make sure that from the street, your property appears clear.
• Inspect appearance of interior window coverings from the outside.
• Repair any peeling paint on windows or other areas.
• Take steps to eliminate insect or rodent pest.
• Pick up after your pets and neighborhood animals.

Doorway

• While you are unlocking the property and turning off alarms, buyers have idle time to notice details.
• Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door.
• Consider adding pots of flowering plants in the entryway if weather permits.
• Eliminate cobwebs and clean doorway area windows, porch lights, or decorative glass.

Interior Appeal

Once inside, Experts say most buyers are reaffirming their first impressions from the outside.

• Clean, Clear, Light and Bright
• Give every room in the house a through cleaning and remove all clutter. Hiring a cleaning service may pay for itself by adding to a buyer's perceived value of your home.
• For a sleeker, more spacious look, consider placing furniture from crowded rooms in storage.
• Clear kitchen counters or benches for everything other than perhaps a few pretty items. Ask yourself: In a model home, would a professional decorator put your choice of items out on the counter?
• Remember, closets and hall cupboards will be opened! Keep closets, cupboards, and storage areas orderly and neat. Since you're anticipating a move anyway, consider holding a garage sale or boxing and storing unused belonging.
• If necessary, repaint or clean/replace dingy, soiled or strongly colored walls, and window and floor coverings with a light, neutral shade. Bright rooms look bigger, and neutral colours help buyers envision their own furnishing and décor.
• Repair dripping faucets, burned out light bulbs, or cracked windowpanes.
• Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster, wallpaper, and tiles.

Warm and Homey

• Subtle Scents of potpourri in bedrooms or baths and fresh baked cookies or coffee in the kitchen can make your home more inviting.
• Keep an attractive set of towels in each bathroom to be brought out only for showings.