Here are a few basic "to-do" items to get you home ready before putting it on the market. This will also help get top dollar for your home without any extra expense

EXTERIOR

• Touch up all chipped paint, stained areas, etc.
• Do general lawn maintenance, make sure the grass is cut and if needed, add seed and water to your lawn so potential buyers see a green lawn.
• Trim back all overgrown shrubbery
• In summer time, add a few flowers to give the home more curb appeal
• Replace any missing shutters, gutters, and downspouts.
• Clean up any clutter from you yard, children’s toys, hoses, sports equipment, etc.
• Make sure you have no visible roof damage.
• Fix any large cracks in the driveway and walkways. No need to resurface everything, just pick up some basic repair tools at you local home repair store
• Fences and railings should be clean and in good shape. Repaint only if necessary
• Clean all windows

INTERIOR

Living Area

• Of course, clean your home thoroughly
• Remove valuable items and put in a safe place
• Touch up all paint on walls, doors and trim. Any cracks should also be repaired
• Have the carpet cleaned to remove any stains or dirt. Also make sure it is vacuumed the day of showing
• Make sure the fireplace is in good shape and reasonable clean
• Check all doors and windows to ensure each work properly; replace any that are missing and fix any squeaks or jams. Also check the handles for anything loose
• Freshen up the home by using deodorizers and freshening sprays.
  NOTE: do not overdue this, some people are bothered by certain smells, while others are may think your trying to cover up a larger problem. Use sparingly and a couple of hours before a showing, if possible.
• Clean as much out of the closets as possible to make them appear larger.
  If you have any extremely bright or odd color choice, considering repainting those rooms and light neutral.

Kitchen

• This room is very important, clean all surfaces and organize all your appliances.
• Like the closets, make as much room in the cabinets as possible so there
  looks like there is more than enough room for the buyer’s kitchenware
• Remove everything for the sink; dirty dishes, rags, sponges etc.
• Inspect the floor for any damage and fix accordingly
• Remove as much off the counters as possible, buyers want a kitchen with a lot of counter space. Do keep a few accessories to make it look nice though.

Bathroom

• After the kitchen, the bathroom is the second most important; clean the shower, sink and toilet. Remove any stains
• Check caulking and replace if needed
• Inspect faucets for leaks and drains for clogs
• Make sure mirrors are spotless
• Remove any personal care items along with dirty towels

Basement, Attic & Garage

• Straighten up the clutter
• Make sure stairways and entryways are well lit
• Repair poor flooring or walls
• Keep items against the wall to give it an uncluttered feel and make it look bigger