Seller advice
Fully preparing your home for sale can make a considerable difference in the time it takes to sell it. Make the repairs and improvements below to help eliminate buyer objections before they arise.
Outdoors
- Spruce up your garden and lawn; trim shrubbery and replace dead plants
- Keep the yard and patio neat; outdoor furniture clean and in good shape
- Clean or paint your front door — first impressions last the longest
- Manicure the front yard; keep the driveway and entryway free of clutter
Exterior
- Check that house numbers, mailbox and exterior lighting are in good condition
- Touch up with fresh paint as needed
- Inspect the chimney for cracks
- Repair loose trim, drain pipes and fencing
- Clean stains and window screens
Living areas
- Brighten the interior with fresh, neutral-toned paint
- Clean carpets
- Replace burnt-out light bulbs
- Clean the fireplace and remove smoke stains from the wall and mantel
- Clean window coverings; replace damaged blinds
Kitchen
- Make sinks, appliances and counter tops sparkle; remove clutter
- Clean the oven, range and other appliances
- Clean tile and grout; replace if necessary
Bathrooms
- Clean mirrors, glass, chrome and porcelain surfaces
- Replace the shower curtain if necessary
- Fix any dripping or leaking faucets
- Clean grout and caulking; replace if necessary
Closets and garage
- Doors and drawers should open and close easily
- Remove clutter; tidy shelves and racks
- Arrange shoes and clothes neatly
- Clean the garage floor and tidy its shelves
Overall
- Check that doors, windows and cabinets don't stick, squeak or feel loose
- Clean the furnace and water heater so buyers see a well-maintained house
Questions? Get in touch or call (703) 282-8444.