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Showing Your Home
- People usually decide within two minutes whether they like a home or not. The first impression is often the lasting impression. And they start forming their opinion before they even walk in the front door!
- So it is smart to ask yourself if your home is as presentable as it can be. The best way to find out is to imagine you're a prospective buyer. You've probably been looking at other homes, so approach your present home the way you look at other houses.
- If you are a seller - think like a buyer!
- Keep it comfortable
Set the temperature of your house at 72-78 F so that prosective home buyers are comfortable, and not questioning the effectiveness of the HAVC system.
- Atmosphere counts!
Aroma of cookies or bread being baked adds to a pleasant atmosphere...as does a nice fire glowing in your fireplace on a chilly day.
- First impressions are lasting impressions
An inviting exterior insures inspection of the interior. Keep your lawn trimmed and edged, the flower bed cultivated, studies show that yellow flowers boost the positive images of the home and keep the yard free and clear of refuse.
- Decorate your home-a step toward a sale
it is amazing what a fresh coat of paint does. Does any part of your house need painting? Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce the home’s appeal.
- Sparkling clean
A bright, tidy home greatly enhances its appeal to buyers. Does your carpeting need to be cleaned or replaced? Clean walls, windows and bathrooms will brighten things up. Keep the bedrooms tidy. The attic, basement and garage need to be as neat and clean as possible. If you remove all unnecessary articles, the full value of your storage and utility space will be displayed. And it's the first impression that counts!
- Fix that faucet
Dripping water discolors the enamel and calls attention to faulty plumbing. Needed little repairs detract from a home's value and the few hours you spend as a handyman can pay you large benefits.
- A day with the carpenter
Loose door knobs, sticking drawers, and warped cabinet doors are noticed by prospects! Have them fixed. Are your screens in good shape? What about the windows? Do they work well or do they need attention?
- Closet illusions
Clothes properly hung, shoes, hats and other articles neatly placed will make your closets appear adequate. Remove some clothing, if necessary, to make them look roomier.
- Dear to your heart is the kitchen
Clear countertops help give a feeling of spaciousness. And your appliances should be in good working order!
- Can you see the light?
Illumination is a welcome sign. Turn on all the lights from the front door to the back ... from top to bottom ... and the prospect will feel a glowing warmth otherwise hard to attain. And keep your draperies open during the day!
- Three's a crowd
Avoid being present during showings. The prospect will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house with you there. We want the potential buyer to “take possession” in his mind of the home.
- Soft background music
Very soft ... make a home feel comfortable to a buyer. But turn off the television, it's too distracting. Let the buyer and agent talk free of disturbances.
- A word about candles Do not make your house appear to ready for a seance... if you light a candle make it one or two and be sure they are mild in odor.
- Love me, love my dog
Does not apply in home selling! Keep pets out of the way, under control, and preferably out of the house. And a little air freshener is sometimes advisable, particularly if the house has been closed up for some time. Also, please empty litter boxes.
- Storage Is Your Friend
The less clutter your home is, the bigger it seems, so put all that extra stuff in storage.
- Me and My Shadow
If you must be home during a showing, please do’t follow the realtor around. The salesperson knows the buyer's requirements and can better emphasize those features.
- We are being paid for a reason
Do not discuss price, terms, possession or other factors with the buyers. Refer them to us. We are better able to bring the negotiation to a favorable conclusion as intermediary third parties.
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