Making a GREAT first impression

Creating an Exceptional First Impression

In the current consumer-driven era, each potential purchaser is comparison shopping. A minor investment in terms of time, finances, and effort in your residence can lend you a considerable advantage over competing properties. Focus on details now because first impressions matter to buyers, and it starts with curb appeal.

Outdoor Appearance:

• Maintain the lawn: An unkempt lawn may discourage a buyer, suggesting that other aspects of the house may also be ignored, which may deter them from viewing the property.
• Prune hedges and shrubs: Similar to the lawn, neglecting these can negatively impact curb appeal.
• Tidy and border gardens: Gardens should enhance the beauty of the house and yard. Remove any dead foliage, weed & border the area, and add some fresh mulch to rejuvenate the garden.
• Keep the driveway clear and remove any oil spills: The driveway should always be free from toys, bikes, trash bins, etc. Clean any oil spills using a solvent from an auto store or K-mart, then wash it so it is free from spills.
• Declutter the Garage: The garage should be used for parking cars, not as a storage shed. If used for storage, buyers may assume the house is too small or lacks sufficient storage. A clean garage also improves curb appeal.
• Refresh paint: If your house, garage, or any other outbuilding requires paint or repair, attend to it before listing the property. First impressions are crucial!

Upkeep:

• Fix leaking taps and toilets: Address these issues promptly to avoid them being flagged during an inspection when the buyer decides to purchase.
• Clean furnace and filters, and if you have an Air Conditioner, do the same: Regular maintenance can extend the life of these costly items. Buyers will be interested in their working condition.
• Secure door knobs and latches: Check both interior and exterior knobs and latches for any looseness and ensure they are in proper working order.
• Mend cracked plaster: If your walls require repair, consider getting professional help.
• Clean and repair windows: Ensure all windows are clean and replace any cracked or broken glass. Slider windows should have clean, oiled tracks for easy sliding.
• Fix seals around tubs and basins: You can buy caulking from a hardware store to replace and repair as necessary.
• Replace non-working light bulbs: Ensure all bulbs are functioning properly, especially in bathrooms and other smaller areas which need to be well lit.
• Lubricate squeaking doors: Use a little oil to fix any squeaking doors in the house, including closet doors.
• Fix squeaking floor boards: This can be challenging depending on your flooring. If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional flooring company.

Spotlessly Clean:

• Deep clean bathrooms. Kitchens and bathrooms should be immaculate. These rooms draw significant attention from buyers; a clean and bright appearance can create a fantastic first impression.
• Clean fridge and stove (inside and out): Even if these appliances are not included in the sale, they should be clean and fully functional. Unpleasant odors from dirty appliances can leave a poor first impression.

Creating Space:

• Remove clutter from halls and stairs: Cluttered areas can make spaces feel cramped and uncomfortable for potential buyers. It’s also a safety concern.
• Store excess furniture: This can make rooms appear larger. Consider renting a storage unit for unused items instead of storing them elsewhere in the house.
• Clear kitchen clutter off the counters and stove top: A tidy kitchen feels larger and cleaner. Avoid piling items on the stove top as it can suggest lack of counter space and pose safety hazards.
• Dispose of empty boxes and containers: These should also be placed in a storage unit until needed.

At the Front Door:

• Clean porch and foyer: The entryway is the first thing buyers see when entering your home. Make sure it’s free of clutter, swept clean, and if you’re in a snowy or icy climate, make sure it’s shoveled and salted.
• Ensure doorbell is functioning: Test your doorbell to ensure you can hear it when a buyer or realtor arrives.
• Repair screen on door or other outdoor areas with screening: All screens should be repaired before listing your property. Screens allow fresh air in and are highly valued by many buyers.
• Freshen front door with paint or varnish: The front door is typically where buyers enter your home. It should look welcoming with a fresh coat of paint or varnish.
• Fix door locks and key access: Like the front door itself, this is what buyers will interact with when entering your home. If they’re not in good condition, they should be replaced. Ensure your key works easily in the lock if realtors are showing your home.