If you want to get the best possible price for your house, start by making sure it looks its best, inside and out. The following checklist offers several easy things you can do to improve a buyer's first impression. While all the points may not apply to you, the process will help you develop an eye for the most attractive aspects of your house.
Before You Begin Showing
Exterior
Repaint siding
Repaint or touch up trim
Repair/repaint gutters and downspouts
Repair/repaint fences
Seal driveway
Remove oil stains from garage floor
Wash all windows
Remove all screens (windows look cleaner
Trim trees, hedges, shrubs
Weed and feed lawn
Remove all clutter (garden tools, toys, etc.)
Entranceway
Check working order of doorbell and exterior light
Replace welcome mat
Repair/repaint storm door and/or front door
Clear interior entry of all clutter
Clear and clean out front hall closet
Living/Dining/Family/Bedrooms
Repaint or touch up walls and ceilings
Repair/replace old molding
Shampoo or replace carpet and/or wash and wax floors
Remove excess or unattractive furniture
Clean curtains, shutters, blinds, etc.
Clean fireplace, mantle, shelving
Replace old bedspreads
Kitchen/Baths
Repair or replace faucets and fixtures
Repaint or repaper walls
Thoroughly clean range/oven, refrigerator and other appliances
Clear out and clean cabinets, drawers, and medicine chests
Remove clutter from countertops
Clean or replace curtains
Grout tubs and showers
Replace old toilet seats and shower curtains
General
Replace burned-out light bulbs
Clear cobwebs from corners and doorways
Wash light switches, hand rails, and doorknobs
Clear and clean all closets
Add "welcoming" touches: potted plants, dried flowers, etc.
