Sellers often underestimate the effect that small details can have on the appeal of their home. A minor makeover can improve the home’s general “wow” appeal, making it sell faster, or even for a greater price.

First Impressions Do Count

• Tidy up your front entrance.
• If it is at all worn, paint or replace your front door.
• Consider pet or food smells in your home and do your best to make them pleasant (see rule #4 below).

Important Updates

• Replace faded, peeling or torn wallpaper.
• Repair or replace worn woodwork.
• Paint a neutral color over walls that look old or were previously painted too boldly.

Brighten It Up

• A dark home just isn’t as inviting, so open the curtains and blinds.
• Turn on all lights during evening showings.
• Replace any steamed up double pane windows or old-looking tinted windows.

Simple Repairs Can Make a Difference

• When a buyer sees things that need fixing, they see dollar signs and begin to wonder what else might need work that they can’t see. Be sure to repair any loose knobs, sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers, broken light switches and other minor flaws. These defects detract from the value of the house.

Clear the Clutter

• Remove all unnecessary articles from your closets and garage. Spacious rooms and large storage spaces are a great selling feature.
• Consider having a garage sale to dispose of unwanted items.
• Look into renting storage for larger items or boxes of things you aren’t ready to part with but don’t use every day. Include your favorite trinkets and excess ornaments. They won’t have the same sentimental value to potential buyers and only distract from your home.
• Look around your home to determine where you can reduce a cluttered appearance.

Safety First

• Keep stairways and hallways clear.
• Don’t overload electrical outlets.

Clean It Until It Shines

• Clean windows and appliances.
• Steam clean or replace carpets.
• Glue back any peeling wallpaper.
• Remove ashtrays and throw out the trash. Give the buyer the impression that your home has been well maintained.

Nice Bathrooms Sell Homes

• Check and repair caulking in bathtubs and showers.
• Clear up any mildew stains.
• Display fresh, clean towels and make the room attractive.
• Spray a light fragrance and make the room pleasant smelling.

Arrange Bedrooms Neatly

• Remove excess furniture.
• Make the beds with clean, attractive bedspreads.
• Consider laundering the curtains.

Don’t Cause Controversy

• Not everyone shares your sense of humor or political views. Remove any signs, posters or art that might be controversial or offensive to prospective buyers.
• Neutralize bold and trendy wall colors.