PREPARING YOUR HOME TO SELL

With buyers, first impressions count. A small investment in time and money will give your home an edge over other listings in the area when the time comes to show it to a prospective buyer.

Here are some suggestions that will help you get top market value:

GENERAL MAINTENANCE Oil squeaky doors Brighten doorknobs Replace burned out lights Clean and repair windows Touch up chipped plaster Repair leaking taps and toilets Make sure all doors open and close properly	CURB APPEAL Cut lawns Trim shrubs and trees Weed and edge gardens Pick up any litter Clear walk and driveway of leaves or snow Touch up exterior paint
SPIC AND SPAN Shampoo carpets Clean washer, dryer and tubs Clean furnace Clean fridge and stove Clean and freshen bathrooms Clean pet areas	THE BUYING ATMOSPHERE Be absent during showings Turn on all lights Light fireplace if appropriate Open drapes if day time Play quiet background music Keep pets outdoors
THE FIRST IMPRESSION Clean and tidy entrance – (Scrub or paint front door, if necessary) Functional doorbell Polish door hardware Clear the clutter	THE SPACIOUS LOOK Clear stairs and halls Store excess furniture Clear counters and stove Make closets neat and tidy (maximize storage place by decluttering)

And last but not least – let your agent schedule showings and
answer questions – she/he has your best interest in mind.