You have probably heard how important first impressions can be, but did you know that within 15 seconds a buyer has developed an opinion of your property? Use this list to determine what to do, before listing your home for sale…

Home Enhancement Checklist:
Exterior
-- Paint if needed. If you do not want to spend the money to paint the entire house, consider painting the shutters or front door.
-- Keep lawn mowed and edged, shrubs trimmed
-- Pick up lawn tools, toys and newspapers, sweep front walkway
-- Check your roof. Replace any broken tiles or shingles. Paint eaves and fascia boards.
-- Clean up after pets
-- Clean decks and patios

Interior
-- Determine if your walls need painting. Paint high visibility rooms (entry, kitchen, main living areas) with a neutral color
-- Repair any holes or cracks in walls, paint ceilings if needed
-- Clean or replace carpets if needed; refinished hardwood floors add a smell of “newness”
-- Clean windows
-- Clean closets and put items in plastic storage containers
-- Clean and organize basement
-- Clean and organize attic and storage spaces
-- Make sure all appliances are clean and in working order
-- Clean ceramic tiles and re-grout if necessary
-- Reduce the number of personal items and clutter (memorabilia, keepsakes, awards etc.) in each room, to make the house seem cleaner
-- Smells are important. Avoid heavy odors from pets, tobacco or cooking

Before showings
-- Open drapes and shades, and turn on lights to make your house look bright and cheerful
-- Prepare tables with flowers and place settings; set out a game or “coffee table” book
-- Turn off the television; play soft background music
-- Tidy up bathrooms; set out show towels
-- Pick up toys and shoes; make up beds and put clothes away
-- Do a quick dusting and give the carpets a once-over with the vacuum; straighten rugs; empty wastebaskets
-- Keep pets out of the way; make sure all pet areas are clean and free of odor

Special tips for showings
-- Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medications and other valuables
-- It is usually best if you can leave while your house is being shown
-- If people who are not accompanied by an agent ask to see your property, please refer them to us; we will pre-screen them.

Sellers should also:
* Complete the seller’s disclosure statement. Fully written disclosure of a property’s condition can be essential to a successful transaction. It can:
-- Attract more buyers by building confidence and piece of mind
-- Make it clear to buyers that the price of your property reflects it disclosed condition
-- Help reduce misunderstanding that could lead to a delayed closing, renegotiation or even litigation

* Consider a home warranty. A home warranty builds buyer confidence by providing repair-or-replace coverage for major home operating systems and appliances and can enhance the marketability of your property.