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
  • Keep the grass cut and remove all yard clutter
  • Weed and apply fresh mulch to flower beds
  • Apply fresh paint to wooden fences
  • Tighten and clean all door handles
  • Clean windows inside and out
  • Powerwash home's exterior
  • Ensure all gutters and downspouts are firmly attached and functioning
  • Paint the front door
  • Buy a new welcome mat
  • Place potted flowers near the front door
Interior
  • 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
  • Clean and organize cabinets, closets and bookshelves
  • Clean all light fixtures and ceiling fans
  • Shampoo carpets
  • Remove excessive wall hangings and knick-knacks
  • Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps
  • Make minor repairs (torn screens, sticking doors, cracked caulking)
  • Clean or paint walls and ceilings
  • Replace worn cabinet and door knobs
  • Fix or replace discolored grout
  • Replace broken tiles
  • Replace worn countertops
Special details for showings
  • Turn on all the lights
  • Open all drapes and shutters in the daytime
  • Keep pets secured outdoors
  • Buy new towels for bathrooms
  • Buy new bedding for bedrooms
  • Replace old lamps or lampshades
  • Play quiet background music
  • Light the fireplace or clean out the ashes and light a candelabrum
  • Infuse home with a comforting scent, such as apple spice or vanilla
  • Set the dining room table for a fancy dinner party
  • Vacate the property while it is being shown