We have all heard the expression, “you only have one chance to make a good first impression”. This expression has never been more true than when it comes to selling a home. When preparing your home for sale, make it SPARKLE. This means clean, organize, clean, discard, and clean. Following is a list of areas of your home to which you should pay special attention when preparing it for sale:

INTERIOR

• Clean all windows.
• Have carpets shampooed.
• Replace worn carpets.
• Repair holes and paint marred walls.
• Paint or stain doors – oil squeaky hinges.
• Store out of season clothes.
• Clean and condition fireplace tiles and moveable parts.
• Clean air vents and returns – replace or paint if needed.
• Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans.
• Remove clutter to make rooms and closets more spacious.
• Clean or replace switch and outlet covers.
• Replace the furnace filter.
• Confirm that the water softener and water heater is clean and functional.

KITCHEN

• Clean appliances, cabinets and countertops.
• Store kitchen counter appliances out of sight.
• Clean cabinets and discard unused items especially under the sink.

BATHROOMS

• Clean everything. Appliances should be spotless.
• Old caulk should be removed and replaced. Tile and grout should be examined and replaced or repaired as necessary.
• Repair leaks.
• Install deodorizers in each bathroom.

EXTERIOR CURB APPEAL

• Cut back over grown hedges and trees.
• Keep the lawn mowed and properly fertilized.
• Wash, clean and paint siding and trim.
• Clean and paint front door and screen.
• Install a new “Welcome” mat.
• Replace entry light and other exterior lights with high wattage bulbs.
• Make sure rain gutters are clean, secured and proper extensions are in place.
• Have older roofs inspected.

GARAGE

• Organize it like a hardware store.
• Discard unused items.
• Remove oil spots from concrete floor.
• Lubricate garage door and confirm opener is functional.
• Paint garage door and service door.
• Remove your car from the garage during showings.