Tips to Prepare your Elkhart County Home for Sale

First impressions are the most powerful sales tools. Emotion plays a tremendous part in creating an interest in your home from a potential buyer. Make certain your home puts its best foot forward and that you follow the time tested rules and behavior that will enhance the likelihood of a sale.

OUTSIDE

  • Invest in landscaping where it can be seen at first sight. A well manicured lawn, neatly clipped shrubs and clean walks create a good first impression.
  • An extra shot of fertilizer, in season, will make your grass look lush and green.
  • Cut back overgrown shrubbery that looks scraggly and keeps light out of your house.
  • Paint your house if necessary. This can probably do more for sales appeal than any other factor. If you decide against painting, at least consider painting front shutters or window and door trim.
  • Walks should be free of leaves, weeds, dirt and debris.
  • Inspect the roof and gutters, and replace any missing shingles.
  • Consider putting flowers outside the front door.
  • Repaint or stain the front door.
  • Put a bright coat of paint on your mailbox (or replace it).
  • Put a new doormat out front.

KITCHEN

  • This is the most important room in the house. Make it bright and attractive. Clean your cabinets inside and out. Also new paint or wallpaper pays dividends.
  • Clean the vent hood, the range/oven and the sink.
  • Scrub the kitchen floor.
  • Remove any extra appliances and/or knickknacks on the counters that you don’t use every day.

BATHROOM

  • Repair any dripping faucets; they discolor sinks and suggest faulty plumbing.
  • Keep fresh towels in the bathroom.
  • Scrub the toilet, shower, tub and caulk if necessary.
  • Recaulk where needed
  • Use drain opener to unclog any slow drains.

LIVING AREAS

  • Have all drywall in good shape. Cracks and nail holes are easy to fix.
  • Check ceiling and ceiling fans for dirt.
  • When painting or redecorating, stick to conventional colors.
  • Replace faded curtains or bedspreads.
  • If you have a fireplace, clean it out and lay some logs inside.
  • Wash your windows inside and out.
  • Replace any broken windows.
  • Replace or fix any torn screens.
  • Make sure all windows open and close easily.
  • Check all light bulbs and replace if necessary.
  • Check light switches and plugs to make sure they work.
  • Make sure all floors are clean.
  • Straighten all closets; well ordered closets show space is ample.
  • For sliding doors that stick, rub paraffin wax in the tracks.
  • Clean the air return vents and put in new filters.

GARAGE, ATTIC AND DRIVEWAY

  • Clean and organize the garage and attic and dispose of anything you will not take with you.
  • Repair any major cracks with ready mix concrete.
  • Clean any oil stains.
  • Check garage door and oil if necessary.

WHEN YOUR HOUSE IS BEING SHOWN

  • Keep shades open to let in light; this makes your rooms look larger.
  • Have your home well-lit and interior doors open for showing.
  • At night, turn on porch light and any exterior lighting.
  • Make sure all beds are made and rooms cleaned daily.
  • Make sure all dirty dishes are in the dishwasher, not in the sink or on the counters.
  • Keep toys in the kids room.
  • Keep radio/stereo/TV off.
  • Leave the house when it is being shown, and take all pets with you.

When selling your home in Elkhart County, choose an Elkhart County Realtor you can trust.

Vicki Myers Realty has the professional experience you need and the personal touch you desire. Our extensive experience and hands-on approach will help you get your home ready to sell, find you a buyer, and get you the best price for your home.