Top 10 Quick Tips for Preparing an Occupied Home for Sale

It starts from the curb. Stand in the street and look at your house critically
a.    Mailbox should be freshly painted.
b.    House numbers should be visible and freshly painted.
c.    Bushes and trees should be trimmed and away from entry. Remove anything rusted or dead from the front and back of the house.
d.    Replace or polish door handles, outdoor lights, door knockers.
e.    Paint front door.
f.    Add color to front stoop and patio or deck with pots of flowers even in winter to draw attention..
 

Replace all LED or fluorescent bulbs with good old fashioned incandescent as they turn on to their brightest immediately and aren’t harsh on the eyes. Make sure all light fixtures have the highest wattage possible.
 

All appliances, faucets and mirrors should always be cleaned before Open Houses and showings.
 

Remove ALL toilet brushes, plungers, trash cans and personal wipes from bathrooms (people don’t want to think about those things when buying a house) NO personal hygiene items EVER in bathrooms or kitchens. No pills, toothbrushes, razors, used soaps, washcloths, rash ointments, etc. Again, nobody wants to think of what the current owner does in a house they are considering buying.
 

Add apple cinnamon plug ins on each level if needed.
 

Remove ALL evidence of pets. No food or water bowls, pet beds, toys or litter boxes. Not everyone loves pets and what they may have done or brought into the home. Think fleas, stains on carpet and flooring.
 

Move valances or curtains that do not show the entire window. Valances should be removed unless they are above the window and only covering a small part at the top. Curtains should be pushed back to start at the edge of the window not covering part of the window on each side. It lets in light and makes the room and the windows look bigger.
 

Keep the house in “staged” condition during the entire market process to ensure getting a contract sooner so you can go return to normal living. Use laundry baskets and/or shower caddies to sweep up any personal items and clutter before a showing. Take them in the car with you and then you can unload them when you get home again.
 

Make a “show plan” with your realtor that allows you time to have the house in tip top shape for each showing and include a pet plan to remove pets if possible. Detail your house like you would detail your car if you were selling it. It’s your largest asset.
 

Look at every room from all 4 corners to see what buyers will be seeing both in photos online and in person.  Focus on vision blocks and move furniture or household items that do not give you a clear view to a highlight of your home (fireplace, window view, new flooring, moldings, new lighting or fixtures). 
 

BONUS TIP!! Paint is the most transformative improvement you can make as well as the best ROI. Make sure you consult a stager for the right color recommendations that will enhance your home. All neutrals are NOT created equal and greige or gray does NOT work in every home.