Remember the 60-second rule:
That’s all the time you have
to create a winning first
impression. Here are some
simple to significant ways
to maximize your home’s
appeal.
Exterior
- Keep the grass cut
and remove all yard
clutter.
- Weed and apply fresh
mulch to flower beds.
- Apply fresh paint to
wooden fences.
- Tighten and clean
all door handles.
- Clean windows inside
and out.
- Powerwash home’s
exterior.
- Ensure all gutters
and downspouts are
firmly attached and
functioning.
- Paint the front
door.
- Buy a new welcome
mat.
- Place potted flowers
near the front door.
Interior
- Evaluate the
furniture in each room
and remove anything that
interrupts “the flow” or
makes the room appear
smaller.
- Consider renting a
storage unit to move
items off-site.
- Clean and organize
cabinets, closets and
bookshelves.
- Clean all light
fixtures and ceiling
fans.
- Shampoo carpets.
- Remove excessive
wall hangings and
knickknacks.
- Repair all plumbing
leaks, including faucets
and drain traps.
- Make minor repairs
(torn screens, sticking
doors, cracked
caulking).
- Clean or paint walls
and ceilings.
- Replace worn cabinet
and door knobs.
- Fix or replace
discolored grout.
- Replace broken
tiles.
- Replace worn
countertops.
- Special details for
showings.
- Turn on all the
lights.
- Open all drapes and
shutters in the daytime.
- Keep pets secured
outdoors.
- Buy new towels for
bathrooms.
- Buy new bedding for
bedrooms.
- Replace old lamps or
lampshades.
- Play quiet
background music.
- Light the fireplace
or clean out the ashes
and light a candelabrum.
- Infuse home with a
comforting scent, such
as apple spice or
vanilla.
- Set the dining room
table for a fancy dinner
party.
- Vacate the property
while it is being shown.