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First impressions are
lasting. The front door greets the
prospect. Make sure it is fresh, clean, and scrubbed looking. Keep lawn
trimmed and edged, and the yard free of refuse.
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Decorate for a quick
sale. Faded walls and worn woodwork
reduce appeal. Why try to tell the prospect how your home might look when
you can show them by redecorating? A quicker sale and a higher price will
result. An investment in new kitchen wallpaper, for example, will pay
dividends.
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Let the sun shine in.
Open draperies and curtains and let the prospect see how cheerful your home
can be (dark rooms are not appealing).
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Fix that faucet!
Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing.
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Repairs can make a
big difference. Loose knobs,
sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers and other minor flaws
detract from home value. Have them fixed.
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From top to bottom.
Display the full value of your attic and other utility space by removing all
unnecessary articles.
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Safety first. Keep
stairways clear. Avoid cluttered appearances and possible injuries.
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Make closets look
bigger. Neat well-ordered closets
show that space is ample.
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Bathrooms help sell
homes. Check and repair caulking in
bathtubs and showers. Make this room sparkle!
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Arrange bedrooms
neatly. Remove excess furniture.
Use attractive bedspreads and freshly laundered curtains.
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Can you see the
light? Illumination is like a
welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel a glowing warmth when you turn
on all your lights for an evening inspection.
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Three's a crowd.
Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The potential
buyers will feel like intruders and hurry through the house.
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Music is mellow.
But not when showing a house. Turn off the blaring radio or television. Let
the salesperson and buyers talk free of disturbances.
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Pets underfoot?
Keep them out of the way--preferably out of the house.
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Silence is golden.
Be courteous, but don't force conversation with the potential buyers. They
want to inspect your house--not pay a social call.
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Be it ever so humble.
Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, it has been
lived in. let the trained salesperson answer any objections. This is his/her
job.
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In the background.
The salesperson knows the buyer's requirements and can better emphasize the
features of your home when you don't tag along. You will be called if
needed.
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Why put the cart
before the horse? Trying to dispose
of furniture and furnishings to the potential buyers before they have
purchased the house often loses a sale.
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A word to the wise.
Let your RealtorŪ discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with
the customer. They are eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a
favorable conclusion.
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Use your agent.
Show your home to prospective customers only by appointment through your
agent. Your cooperation will be appreciated and will help close the sale
more quickly
