There are certain things you can do to increase your chances of selling your home. Do all or as many as possible and remember you only have one chance to make a good first impression.


First Impressions - Keep the interior and exterior of your home neat and clean. Lawns and shrubs should be well-trimmed to give a well-maintained appearance.

Clean Windows - Sparkling windows with your best curtains, drapes or blinds continue the perception of a well-maintained home.

Redecoration - If any part of your home needs redecoration badly, do so only if economically feasible. Remember you want to get back the money you put in.

Sparkling Kitchen and Bathrooms - These are the most important areas to buyers. Apply fresh caulk around the tub and shower.

Turn on Lights - Bright rooms appear larger.

Clean Basement - Cluttered basements retain dampness and the smell of mildew leads buyers to think of water problems even when none exists.

Keep Stairways Clear - Objects on stairs and missing handrails are dangerous and demonstrate negligence.

Empty Closets - Cluttered closets stuffed from top to bottom tell prospective buyers your home's closet space is inadequate. Move items to the attic or storage room or better yet have a yard sale.

Children and Pets - Make other arrangements for children and pets, so that they are not present when the buyer arrives.

Play Soft Music - It will be soothing to the buyer to have soft music playing (at a low volume) in the background. Be sure to turn off the television because it will distract buyers.

Never Apologize For Appearance - It will only call attention to the condition of your home.

First Sell The House - Do not try to sell the customer any furniture, rugs, appliances until you have a signed contract of sale.
Sell the house first.

Vanilla or Cinnamon In The Oven - Pour vanilla extract on a cookie sheet and warm the oven to produce the homey sweet smell of cookies.

Night Appointments - Turn on the outside lights. Try not to show your home after dark unless the buyer is really motivated.

When Using A Real Estate Professional - It's best to leave the house and let the salesperson sell the home. The longer the buyers stays in your home, the better your changes of them buying your home. They will not stay as long if your there.