Showing your home - tips for sellers

Selling a home while living in it is not easy – you want it to look its best when potential buyers come around. Still, with a plan in place, you can minimize the panic. Here is a checklist to help.

1. Tone it down! Turn off all electronics to cut down on noise.
2. Make it bright! Turn on all the lighting to illuminate every room. For daytime showings, open all window coverings.
3. Clear the clutter! Stash magazines, newspapers and mail in a basket or box you can easily slip under a bed or tuck quickly in a dresser drawer.
4. Stifle the odors! Be sure to remove the source of the odor, then open the window or door to let in some fresh air. If needed, place a small bowl of white vinegar or fresh coffee grounds in the area of unpleasant smells to absorb odors.
5. Round up the pets! Keep them safe, get them out of the way and make the buyers comfortable. Secure pets in their crates, outdoors or with you or a neighbor.
6. Check floors! Use a hand vacuum or damp cloth to remove debris or spots. Do a complete sweep-up if you have a time.
7. Make it comfortable! Turn down the air conditioner a degree or two to make it cool and inviting inside. Circulate air with fans on low if no AC
8. Kitchen: Clean and put away dishes ( or hide them). Wipe counters and fixtures.
9. Bathrooms: Wipe counters, fixtures and mirror. Make sure toilets are clean and lids closed. Hang fresh towels neatly. Move toiletries under cabinet or into a closet.
10. Bedrooms: Make bed, put the clothes away in drawers, hide them in the hamper, washer or dryer… 11. Children’s room: Gather toys, games and books, and put them back on bookshelves or in bins.
12. Living room or family room: Remove the clutter; put away books; stash knickknacks and family photos out of sight.
13. Entry way: Hang all coats , hats, umbrellas, keys and bags in a closet- not on the wall hooks. Hide the shoes. Clear away papers and mail.

What Sellers Need To Focus On

 If you are thinking of selling your home, it’s good to know what today’s buyers are looking for in a home they want to buy. Remember, these are national trends.

  HOT

1. Stainless 
2. Granite 
3. Hardwood floors 
4. Chrome, brushed nickel or oil rubbed bronze fixtures 
5. Earth tones contrasted with bright colors 
6. Eco-friendly 
7. Open spaces