PREPPING YOUR HOME FOR SALE/SHOWING

04.02.09

Periodically it seems appropriate to review this topic. Every agent has 'pet' suggestions to offer an owner when prepping a house for sale, or a showing. Here are some of mine:

Eliminate unsightly surface blemishes on ceilings, walls, and floors that could cause a prospective buyer to think bigger problems might exist. Examples: water stains on ceilings or walls. FIX existing problems causing these blemishes, or eliminate the visual evidence of an already repaired problem.

The same goes for evidence of moisture issues in basement levels of homes, especially if these areas are utilized as living spaces. Ceiling panels, interior wall panels, wall-to-wall carpeting, that show signs of mold or other moisture presence should be replaced or repainted; the sources should be fixed of course, or the redecoration/fix won't last long.

Eliminate all signs of pet scents if possible. However, MINIMIZE or exclude the use of 'scent candles'. They can provoke more 'suspicion' than solve a 'scent' problem, plus they can be nauseating to some.

Keep the interior uncluttered. The home can 'look' lived in, but 'clutter' is a no-no. Beds should be made, bath rooms should be clean, toilets should be flushed with SEATS down, and kids' toys should be off the floor.. Lighting should be used (turned on) only if natural light is limited or the day is overcast/dark.

Only in a very few cases, will I recommend a complete exterior paint job. A touch up might be appropriate; rotten or damaged siding and trim should probably be fixed or replaced.

Doing much of the above will help keep building inspection results as well as buyers' opinions on the positive side of the process.

©2009 R. Leech features.