These small details could stop buyers from choosing your home! When you are selling your home, take a close look at every part of your house, top to bottom. Make sure that every bit of your home is in top form, so that potential buyers have no reason to pass you by. Here’s a list of things to check before you have your first showing:
1. Clutter. Pare down the shelves, bathroom and kitchen counters and closets
2. Storage Spaces. These should be organized and not over-stuffed
3. Lighting. Light bulbs should be bright white, not yellow to make your home lighter
4. Kitchen Cleanliness. Make that kitchen pristine, touch up paint, clear counters
5. Wood Rot. Check windows and door frames for wood rot — replace and repaint
6. Evidence of Pets. Your home should appear pet-free
7. Personal Items. Remove all family photos and memorabilia from your home
8. Unloved Exterior. Clean windows, touch up paint, make sure everything looks perfect
9. Temperature. Make sure the temperature is consistent throughout your home
10. House smells. Rid your home of pet smells, strong cooking odors and the like
11. Curb appeal. Mow that lawn, spruce up the garden and add mulch, pot some flowers
12. Mechanics. Change air filters, clean ducts, get the HVAC checked
13. Attics and Basements. These areas should be clean, organized and walkable
14. Fresh Paint. Hit the walls and ceilings with a fresh coat of paint to eliminate flaws
