Little Improvements = Big Returns

It's always a good idea to spruce up the exterior and interior of your home before listing it for sale. But that doesn't mean you have to undertake major and/or expensive projects.

Just a little effort will greatly increase the perceived value of your home. After all, if you wanted to undertake a large-scale project, you probably wouldn't be selling!

Here are some simple steps you can take to increase the perceived value of your home and make a great first impression.

Exterior Appearance

• Keep lawns cut
• Trim hedges and shrubs
• Weed and edge gardens
• Clear driveway and clean up oil spills
• Clean out garage
• Power wash
• Touch up paint
• Plant colorful, inexpensive flowers in pots if necessary

At the Front Door

• Clean porch and foyer
• Ensure doorbell works
• Repair any broken screens
• Fresh paint or varnish front door
• Repair door locks and key access

Create a Buying Mood

• Make sure your home smells fresh and clean
• Turn on lights
• Turn on air conditioner/heater
• Open the drapes
• Light the fireplace

Create Space

• Clear halls and stairs of clutter
• Store surplus furniture
• Clear kitchen counter and stovetop
• Clear closets of unnecessary clothing and stuff
• Remove empty boxes and containers
• Put away personal photos so buyers can envision the house as theirs

Maintenance

• Repair leaking taps and toilets
• Clean furnace and filters
• Tighten door knobs and latches
• Repair cracked plaster
• Apply a fresh coat of paint or touch up where necessary
• Clean and repair windows
• Repair seals around tubs and basins
• Replace defective light bulbs
• Oil squeaking doors
• Repair squeaking floorboards

Squeaky Clean

• Clean and freshen bathrooms
• Clean fridge and stove (in and out)
• Clean around heating vents
• Clean washer and dryer
• Clean carpets, drapes and window blinds
• Eliminate pet odors and stains