Enhancing Your House's Appeal

Remember the 60-second rule: That's the total amount of time you have to make a winning first impression on your buyer. Here are some important ways and tips you can use to maximize and enhance your home's curb appeal.

Exterior Look

›Clean the doors of the house and tighten all door handles.
›Clear the yard of debris and trim the grass and landscaping.
›Weed and apply fresh mulch and protective cover to flower beds.
›Clean and wash windows inside and out.
›Apply fresh paint to the wooden fences.
›Have the front door of the house painted.
›Buy a new and fascinating welcome mat.
›Have the exterior of the house power washed.
›Make sure all downspouts and gutters are working and securely attached.
›Place fragrant potted flowers near the front door.

Interior Look

›Clean and wash all the ceiling fans and light fixtures.
›Organize and clean closets, cabinets and bookshelves.
›Rent a storage unit to move the items off-site.
›Remove anything that interrupts the flow of movement and makes the room feel smaller, and evaluate and expand the furniture in each room.
›Wash the carpets with soap and shampoo.
›Have the broken tiles and worn countertops replaced.
›Remove extra tchotchkes and excessive wall hangings.
›Have all plumbing leaks repaired, including drain traps and faucets.
›Make minor repairs to jammed or cracked caulk, stuck doors, and torn screens.
›Replace or repair discolored grout.
›Paint and clean ceilings and walls.
›Replace door knobs and worn cabinets.

Special Details for Display

›Keep all lights on.
›Keep pets secured outdoors.
›Keep all toilet lids closed in each and every bathroom.
›Keep all shades and curtains open during the day.
›Purchase new towels for washrooms.
›Purchase new sheets for the bedrooms.
›Replace old style lampshades and lamps.
›Continue to play soft background music.
›Light the candelabrum and fireplace and clean up all the ashes.
›Fill the home with a soothing and fragrant scent such as vanilla or apple spice.
›Set the dining room table for an extravagant dinner party.
›Leave the property while it is on display.