1. Get rid of clutter. Throw out or file stacks of newspapers
and magazines. Pack away most of your small decorative items.
Store out-of-season clothing to make closets seem roomier. Clean
out the garage.
2. Wash your windows and screens to let more light into the
interior.
3. Keep everything extra clean. Wash fingerprints from light
switch plates. Mop and wax floors. Clean the stove and
refrigerator. A clean house makes a better first impression and
convinces buyers that the home has been well cared for.
4. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate
cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows.
5. Put higher wattage bulbs in light sockets to make rooms seem
brighter, especially basements and other dark rooms. Replace any
burnt-out bulbs.
6. Make minor repairs that can create a bad impression. Small
problems such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking,
or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they’ll give buyers
the impression that the house isn’t well maintained.
7. Tidy your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves, trim the
bushes, and edge the walks. Put a pot or two of bright flowers
near the entryway.
8. Patch holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if
applicable.