Pressure wash sidewalks, patios and driveways.

Trim shrubs and pull weeds, lay fresh ground cover.

Touch up outside paint or re-paint home if needed.

Replace any outdoor rot wood on home.

Make repairs on any fencing that may be needed.

Plant flowers near sidewalks and front entrance, or use some potted plants.

Clean or paint any outdoor furniture.

Have all outdoor lighting in working condition.

Refinish any hardwood flooring that is scuffed or scratched.

Professionally clean carpeting.

Replace carpeting that is worn or stained.

Stretch carpeting that has buckled.

Touch up indoor paint or re-paint if needed (use neutral colors).

Make sure all lights are in working order and have all lights on for showings.

Display fresh flowers.

Remove magnets from the refrigerator.

Keep kitchen counters bare with only a few essentials.

Keep bathroom counters bare.

Pack up the knick knacks.

Keep EVERYTHING spotless!

Never assume this attitude:  “The buyer can make that change or repair if they want to.  After all, this is a resale, not a new home!”  The buyer’s thought process does not work that way.  In fact the buyer’s assumption is, “This home hasn’t been well maintained, I wonder what else is wrong that I can’t see.”  Or, “This is a great home, but it needs so much work!  I’m not going to pay this asking price.  Maybe we can get a deal.”  Or, “I’m not going to buy a house that I have to repaint the walls and repair the floors!”

Never assume this attitude: “I’ll give the buyer a paint allowance or a carpet allowance if they ask.” Guess what? They don’t ask. They just remove your home from their “top choice list” to their “not interested list” and that’s the last you will hear from them.

Do not advertise that you are providing a repair allowance, or a paint allowance, or carpet allowance. Two things happen here. One, they decide not to take the time to view your home because it must need work, so that sales opportunity is gone. Or, they negotiate for more than you are willing to provide, which is another dead end. Just do what needs to be done. When a buyer is getting that first impression, flooring and wall paint or coverings are the two most single influences.

And here’s another tip:  Many places will install carpet, tile, and / or hardwoods with no payments due for 6 months, or even sometimes a full year.  Take advantage of that and pay your bill out of your proceeds after you close for TOP DOLLAR!   Close quickly, and you can invest that money until your payment is due!