The “What Do You Do Now?” Checklist

So, you’re ready to sell your home.  Getting your home ready before buyers come to visit is very important.  Here is a checklist of items you should check before the showing appointments start;

• Replace heating and air conditioning filters
• Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint deterioration
• Clean siding
• Check all decks, patios, porches, stairs and railings for loose parts
• Check roof for loose or missing shingles, check ceiling and attic for water penetration
• Clean areas around indoor and outdoor heating and cooling equipment
• Have slow running drains cleaned
• Remove any debris from around your home that might harbor pests
• Clean carpets and remove spots
• Clean walls and wax woodwork; paint (if needed)
• Clean, wax and polish all hard surface floors
• Clean windows inside and out – glass, frames and ledges
• Clean draperies and open to maximize natural light
• Clean bathrooms thoroughly – floors, walls, fixtures and tiles
• Clean kitchen ceiling, cabinets, appliances and fixtures
• Check and repair loose doorknobs, sticking drawers and warped cabinet doors
• Clean attic, garage and other storage areas
• Clean closets and hang clothes neatly.  Store shoes, luggage and other articles neatly
• Use vinegar to clean mineral deposits off the heating element of your dishwasher
• Clean oven, stove top, exhaust hood and microwave; replace reflector plates (if needed)
• Check your water heater and drain pan for leaks or corrosion
• Mow and edge your lawn regularly
• Prune and trim trees and shrubs
• Rake leaves – pick up fallen limbs
• Replace dead or diseased plants and shrubs
• Clean out flower beds and plant seasonal flowers to enhance the beauty of your yard
• Discard old or broken lawn furniture, flower pots and hanging baskets
• Sweep walkways, patio, deck, steps and porch
• Use 75-watt light bulbs to brighten rooms
• Arrange furniture to make rooms appear larger and provide maximum walk space
• Repair or re-finish damaged doors, molding and paneling
• Remove ashes and soot from fireplace; clean smoke marks
• Sell or store extra furniture so that the house looks open and spacious
• Deodorize the entire house to remove unpleasant odors, such as mildew, smoke and cooking smells

The single most improtant thing that you can do is though…  is leave!

Even if the sales agent says that it is okay for you to stay, it is better that you leave.

A potential buyer must get emotionally committed to your home to want to buy it and they cannot become emotional about their “new home” if you, the current owner, is present