Increasing your home's appeal

Remember the 60-second rule: That's all the time you have to create a winning first impression. Here are some simple to significant ways to maximize your home's appeal.

Exterior

* Keep the grass cut and remove all yard clutter.

* Weed and apply fresh mulch to flower beds.

* Apply fresh paint to wooden fences.

* Tighten and clean all door handles.

* Clean windows inside and out.

* Powerwash home's exterior.

* Ensure all gutters and downspouts are firmly attached and functioning.

* Paint the front door.

* Buy a new welcome mat.

* Place potted flowers near the front door.

Interior

* Evaluate the furniture in each room and remove anything that interrupts "the flow" or makes the room appear smaller. Consider renting a storage unit to move items off-site.

* Clean and organize cabinets, closets and bookshelves.

* Clean all light fixtures and ceiling fans.

* Shampoo carpets.

* Remove excessive wall hangings and knick-knacks.

* Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps.

* Make minor repairs (torn screens, sticking doors, cracked caulking).

* Clean or paint walls and ceilings.

* Replace worn cabinet and door knobs.

* Fix or replace discolored grout.

* Replace broken tiles.

* Replace worn countertops.

Special details for showings

* Turn on all the lights.

* Open all drapes and shutters in the daytime.

* Keep pets secured outdoors.

* Buy new towels for bathrooms.

* Buy new bedding for bedrooms.

* Replace old lamps or lampshades.

* Play quiet background music.

* Light the fireplace or clean out the ashes and light a candelabrum.

* Infuse home with a comforting scent, such as apple spice or vanilla.

* Set the dining room table for a fancy dinner party.

* Vacate the property while it is being shown.

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