Are you thinking of selling your home this spring or summer? If you're one of the many homeowners who choose this time of year to move -- whether you're trading up or down, or simply relocating -- you're probably starting to prepare your home for the sale.

Before you become overwhelmed by the task, it's a good idea to sit down and try to look at your home objectively. An attractive, well-kept home generally has a better chance of selling a little faster. Also, the old adage "first impressions are lasting ones" is very true.

If you haven't made substantial improvements or changes over the years, it's not a good idea to try to take on major renovation projects simply to sell your home. This can be an expensive and lengthy procedure and there are no guarantees that you'll be able to recover all of your costs.

Instead, try to determine what types of minor cosmetic improvements can be made, like general cleaning, painting, floor refinishing, and so on. These projects generally don't require a lot of capital and your home can be greatly improved by them. Consult with your REALTOR to see what types of improvements make the most sense.

Start With The Outside

An inviting exterior insures that potential buyers will inspect the interior, so it's important to keep your lawn and hedges trimmed and edged, the flower beds cultivated, and your yard free and clear of clutter and refuse.

If you have any loose siding or pavement, it's a good idea to get these items repaired. And if you have any cracked or broken windows, get them fixed as well.

Missing shingles or eaves troughs should also be replaced and loose shutters or awnings secured. You may also want to consider painting the exterior of your home to spruce it up a little. And if you have aluminum or vinyl siding or trim that's quite dirty, hire someone to clean it with a power washer, if you can't or don't want to wash it yourself.

If you have a garage, make sure the door is clean, attractive, and in good working order. Also make sure the inside of your garage doesn't look too cluttered or unorganized. Keep patios, walkways, and decks free of debris and clutter.

The Inside Story

You can do a lot on the inside of your home as well, without spending a great deal of money. Two primary areas to keep in mind are the kitchen and bathroom. These two rooms of your home are generally of prime interest to potential buyers. Make sure they're clutter-free, bright, and spotless.

This applies to kitchen appliances as well -- especially if you're including them with the sale of your home.

If the carpeting in your home looks dirty or dingy, you may want to rent a steam cleaner, or hire a professional carpet cleaner. Pet odours can become trapped in rugs and this can repel prospective buyers.

Also give your home a thorough cleaning and if you've been cooking, ensure you air the home prior to its showing. Make sure any wood and tile floors look clean and bright, not dull and dingy.

As well, keep in mind that rooms that are too cluttered will give the impression that they're much smaller than their true size. Try to create a feeling of spaciousness when conducting your spruce-up. If you have too much furniture, consider removing some of it or storing it with a friend or relative.

And There's a Checklist

In addition to the information outlined above, here's a brief checklist for you to run over before your house is shown.

• Whenever possible, try to be out of the house while the REALTOR is conducting a showing. (Potential buyers often feel like intruders when homeowners are present.)
• Keep pets well out of the way -- preferably out of your house during the showing. (Even small barking dogs can create a negative emotion and those potential buyers who are afraid of dogs will not wish to view your home.)
• Make sure your home is tidy and well-aired.
• Keep all stairways free of clutter.
• Remove any items (like chandeliers) which won't be included in the sale of the home.
• Don't keep money and jewelry in plain sight during a showing.
• Ensure that every room is adequately lit.

Ask your REALTOR for his or her checklist to better prepare you for a showing or open house. By following these relatively simple tips, you'll feel proud of your home and potential buyers are sure to appreciate its beauty.

This article was provided by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board - "An Association of REALTORS", for the information and benefit of consumers.

April, 1993
rev Mar/95
rev Jan/98

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