You don't get a second chance at a first impression.
Make sure the house number is easy to read. If buyers can't find the house, they may drive on to the next house on their list.
Keep the lawn well manicured, the shrubs trimmed. Plant brightly colored flowers in beds and/or place flowerpots on the front steps. Of course, keep them weeded.
Make your front entry inviting. Decorate it, paint the door, or buy a new door. It's the first look at your house, so make it a good one.
Store or organize items that make the yard look messy. Pick up all toys. Remove old outdoor furniture.
Fix doorbells, tighten loose doorknobs, oil squeaky hinges, make sure the lock works smoothly. If they can't get the door open, they won't buy it!
A spotless home sells for much more than a merely clean home.
Wash the windows inside and out; wipe down the walls (spider webs and fingerprints); shampoo the carpets and clean the light switch plates.
Clean and organize the closets. You are moving so start packing. Pack away the off season items. Empty your closets as much as possible so your buyers will think there is lots of closet/storage space.
Eliminate clutter. Get rid of old newspapers, magazine piles, etc. Scale down on items on end tables, buffets, etc. Posters, signs, photos (especially in teenager's rooms) should be minimized.
Create space by removing some of the furniture.
Make the kitchen sparkle. Clean the oven and fridge. Remove the magnets! Keep counters clear.
Spit shine the bathroom. Mirrors should sparkle; towels should be neat and matching; toilet flushed and lid down.
Remove offensive odors. Pets and smoking are the biggest culprits. but don't forget about foods and heavy cleaning agents, too. Empty ashtrays and litter boxes daily.
If it's broken, fix it. Poor maintenance is great reason for a low-ball offer (if they offer at all).
