First impressions count with buyers. In today's age every buyer is comparative shopping. A small investment in time and money can give your home a solid advantage over competing properties. By paying attention to detail now, you can enhance the perceived value later. Below are some suggestions for preparing your home to show to its best advantage.

Create a Buying Mood

• Turn on lights
• Turn on air conditioner/heater
• Open the drapes
• Light the fireplace

• Keep lawns cut
• Trim hedges and shrubs
• Weed and edge gardens
• Clear driveway and clean up oil spills
• Clean out garage
• Touch up paint
• Make repairs where needed

• Clear halls and stairs of clutter
• Store surplus furniture
• Clear kitchen counter and stove top
• Clear closets of unnecessary clothing
• Remove empty boxes and containers

• Repair leaking taps and toilets
• Clean furnace and filters
• Tighten door knobs and latches
• Repair cracked plaster
• Touch up paint
• Clean and repair windows
• Repair seals around tubs and basins
• Replace defective light bulbs
• Oil squeaking doors
• Repair squeaking floor boards

• Clean and freshen bathrooms
• Clean fridge and stove (in and out)
• Clean around heating vents
• Clean washer and dryer
• Clean carpets, drapes and window blinds

• Clean porch and foyer
• Ensure door bell works
• Repair screen on door
• Fresh paint or varnish front door
• Repair door locks and key access