Let your home smile
a welcome to buyers
1. First impressions are lasting. The front door greets the prospect. Make sure it is fresh, clean, and scrubbed looking. Keep lawn trimmed and edged, and the yard free of refuse.
2. Decorate for a quick sale. Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce appeal. Why try to tell the prospect how your home could look, when you can show them by redecorating? A quicker sale at a higher price will result. An investment in new kitchen wallpaper will pay dividends.
3. Let the sun shine in. Open draperies and blinds and let the prospect see how cheerful your home can be. (Dark rooms do not appeal.)
4. Fix that faucet! Dripping water discolors sinks and suggests faulty plumbing.
5. Repairs can make a big difference. Loose knobs, sticking doors and windows, warped cabinet drawers and other minor flaws detract from a home's value. Have them fixed.
6. From top to bottom. Display the full value of your attic and other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles.
7. Safety first. Keep stairways clear. Avoid cluttered appearances and possible injuries.
8. Make closets show that space is ample.
9. Bathrooms help sell homes. Check and repair caulking in bathtubs and showers. Make this room sparkle.
10. Arrange bedrooms neatly. Remove exc-ess furniture. Use attractive bedspreads and freshly laundered curtains.
11. Can you see the light? Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel the glowing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening inspection.
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When the agent shows the house
12. Three's a crowd. Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The potential buyers will feel like an intruder and will hurry through the house.
13. Music is mellow. But now when showing a house. Turn off the radio or television. Let the salesperson and buyers talk, free of disturbances.
14. Pets underfoot? Keep them out of the way – preferably out of the house.
15. Silence is golden. Be courteous but don't force conversation with the potential buyers. They want to inspect your house – not pay a social call.
16. Be it ever so humble. Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, it has been lived in. Let the trained salesperson answer and objections. This is their job.
17. In the background. The salesperson knows the buyer's requirements and can better emphasize the features of your home when you don't tag along. You will be called if needed.
18. Why put the cart before the horse? Trying to dispose of furniture and furnishings to the potential buyers before they have purchase the house often loses a sale.
19. A word to the wise. Let the real estate agent discuss price terms, possession and other factors with the customer. They are eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.
20. Use your agent. Show your home to prospective buyers only by appointment through your agent. Your cooperation will be appreciated and will help close the sale more quickly.
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Tips For Sellers
