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TIPS TO HELP YOU SELL YOUR HOME MORE QUICKLY
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Owners
can help expedite the sale of their home by following a few
guidelines to make the house more attractive to potential buyers.
A thorough self-inspection and a walk-through with your real
estate agent can reveal imperfections that might hinder a sale.
House-hunters typically begin their inspection of a property by
previewing its "curb appeal." A surprising number of homes are
eliminated from consideration before potential buyers get out of
their car because they find the exterior appearance unsightly or
uninviting.
The following are some basic suggestions for improving the
marketability of your home.
Examine the lawn and flower gardens, making sure the lawn is mowed
and free of drainage problems. Colorful flowers and shrubs can
enhance the home's attractiveness.
Check the sidewalks and driveway to make sure they're free of
weeds and clutter.
Inspect the home's exterior, looking for loose, missing or damaged
siding and brickwork, a cracked and uneven foundation, and
gutters, downspouts or fences that are in disrepair. Paint or
repair any problem areas.
Clear the decks! Clean decks, patios and steps, removing
unnecessary furniture, toys and debris. Tidy up any pet areas.
Inspect the front door. A fresh coat of paint or stain and a clean
doormat can help create an inviting "first impression."
Check lighting, making sure pathways and entry have adequate
illumination.
Inside the home, you should conduct an equally thorough
inspection, since potential buyers are likely to open doors and
cupboards, look into, look behind and operate everything to make
sure the home offers the space, layout and features they need.
Extensive redecorating isn't usually recommended, but all rooms
should be clean and clutter-free. Think "light," "bright," "open"
and "airy."
Clear rooms (including closets and storage areas) of everything
but the basics. Arrange furniture so rooms look spacious.
Remove clutter from the basement and garage. Sweep floors,
degrease spots and dust.
Have carpets and drapes professionally cleaned.
Patch walls and ceiling cracks, then repaint or wallpaper, using
neutral shades.
Inspect bathroom and kitchen fixtures to make sure they sparkle,
are leak-free and are otherwise functioning well. Remove stains
from countertops, sinks, tubs and showers.
Test major mechanical components, including the furnace, water
heater and electrical system.
Make sure windows and doors open and close easily. Replace cracked
or scratched glass.
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