PREPARING FOR A SHOWING

Homes tend to sell more quickly and for higher prices when they show their best.

It is very important that your home shows well.  However, a lived in home is sometimes not very easily a perfectly presented home.  It is essential that you develop a routine that will allow you to pick up and be prepared to show in a reasonable period without duress...a 30 minute countdown would be great.  To achieve the ability to have a 30 minute countdown several things must be done in advance and kept up consistently.  For example, beds should be made up first thing in the morning and dirty dishes placed in the dishwasher after use.

BEFORE EACH SHOWING...

The walkway                

Make sure all toys, garden equipment and hoses are picked up and properly put away.

The entryway                

It is the first and last impression that the prospective buyers will have of your home, make it a good one!  Check it regularly for sharpness.

Pick up every room        

Check counters, floors, halls and stairs.  Straighten up or remove newspapers, magazines, mail, toys, clothing, recreation gear, snack glasses and dishes.

Turn on all lights            

Even those in closets and storage rooms.  Electric lights have an amazing capability for creating an illusion of lightness and largeness.

Open drapes & blinds    

Do all that you can to create a bright and light ambiance.  

The bedrooms                

Make up the beds, neatly and attractively, early in the morning.  This is a job you do not want to have to do when you learn prospective buyers will be there in 30 minutes. (0r they are calling from the driveway).

The kitchen                

Be sure all countertops are clear and "squeaky clean".  Wipe down appliances.  Be sure all dishes are in the dishwasher or cleaned and put away.  The sink should be clear and clean.  

The bathrooms                

Keep a set of fresh, attractive towels in each room that you can change instantly.  Wipe down all counters.  Wipe down the toilet and close the lid.  Make sure the shower door or curtain is closed and the trash can is not overflowing.

Clean air                        

Keep air fresheners in closets, bathrooms and kitchen.  Be especially careful to keep kitchen odors fresh: coffee brewing or cookies baking in the oven have an inviting effect. For pet odors, try specialty products such as Nok Out  or Urine Off.

Music                          

Soft, pleasant background music can be very effective.

Heat & AC                    

Make sure the temperature is very comfortable so the prospective buyer will relax and perhaps stay longer in your home.