Fully preparing your home for sale can make a considerable difference in the time it takes to sell it. You can help eliminate buyer objections before they arise by making necessary repairs and improvements, some of which are suggested below:
Outdoors
Spruce up your garden and lawn; trim shrubbery and replace dead plants
Yard and patio should be neat; outdoor furniture should be clean and in good shape
Clean or paint your front door - remember first impressions last the longest!
Manicure your front yard; make sure your driveway and entryway are free of clutter
Exterior
Check that house numbers, mailbox, and exterior lighting are all in good condition
Touch up with fresh paint as needed
Use the garden hose and spray exterior and eaves to brighten paint and remove cobwebs and dust.
Inspect chimney for cracks or earthquake damage
Repair loose trim, drain pipes, and fencing
Clean stains and window screens
Garage
Remove clutter and tidy up the shelves
Clean the floor
Overall
Apply fresh paint as needed. Think about brightening your interior with neutral-toned paint
Clean draperies and carpets
Replace burned out light bulbs
Clean the fireplace and remove smoke stains from the wall and mantle
Kitchen
Sinks, appliances and counter tops should sparkle; remove any clutter.
Wax the floor
Clean the oven range and other appliances
Clean tile and grout; replace if necessary
Bathrooms
Clean mirrors, glass, chrome and porcelain surfaces
Replace shower curtain if necessary
Fix any faucet drips or leaks
Clean grout and caulking; replace if necessary
Closets
Doors and drawers should open and close easily
Remove clutter; tidy up shelves and racks
Clothes should be neatly arranged
Indoors
Check the basics around the house. It takes just a minute to check all doors, windows and cabinets to make sure they don't stick, squeak or are too loose
Clean your furnace and water heater so buyers know they are looking at a house that has been well maintained
