Increasing your home's appeal
Remember the 60-second rule: That's all the time you have to create a winning first impression. Here are some simple to significant ways to maximize your home's appeal.
Exterior
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Keep the grass cut and remove all yard clutter
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Weed and apply fresh mulch to flower beds
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Apply fresh paint to wooden fences
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Tighten and clean all door handles
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Clean windows inside and out
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Powerwash home's exterior
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Ensure all gutters and downspouts are firmly attached and functioning
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Paint the front door
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Buy a new welcome mat
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Place potted flowers near the front door
Interior
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Evaluate the furniture in each room and remove anything that interrupts "the flow" or makes the room appear smaller. Consider renting a storage unit to move items off-site
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Clean and organize cabinets, closets and bookshelves
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Clean all light fixtures and ceiling fans
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Shampoo carpets
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Remove excessive wall hangings and knick-knacks
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Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps
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Make minor repairs (torn screens, sticking doors, cracked caulking)
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Clean or paint walls and ceilings
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Replace worn cabinet and door knobs
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Fix or replace discolored grout
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Replace broken tiles
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Replace worn countertops
Special details for showings
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Turn on all the lights
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Open all drapes and shutters in the daytime
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Keep pets secured outdoors
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Buy new towels for bathrooms
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Buy new bedding for bedrooms
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Replace old lamps or lampshades
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Play quiet background music
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Light the fireplace or clean out the ashes and light a candelabrum
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Infuse home with a comforting scent, such as apple spice or vanilla
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Set the dining room table for a fancy dinner party
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Vacate the property while it is being shown