Each property has one chance to make a great impression with a potential buyer. That requires maintaining the property in “Show Time” condition, so that it’s always ready to make the great first impression that can make the sale!

• Keep the landscaping neatly trimmed, weeded and free of debris and clutter during the entire marketing period

• Add a new front door mat; keep walkways, driveway and front door entry area clean.

• Clean outside lighting fixtures; make sure the doorbell works.

• Repair anything that is not in proper working order, including loose doorknobs, broken door locks, leaking taps and toilets, squeaky doors, closets or screen doors that go off their tracks.

• Repair any broken windows, fogged or leaking windows or windows that don’t open and close properly.

• Quiet squeaks or noisy appliance fans with a squirt of lubricant.

• Keep kitchen spotless and fresh smelling at all times -- regularly grind a quarter of a lemon in the garbage disposal and keep fresh boxes of baking soda in refrigerator and freezer.

• Unclutter kitchen counter spaces, pantry and cabinets and under sink area.

• Remove items hanging on the refrigerator.

• Make sure all kitchen appliances are spotless inside and out.

• Make sure all appliances and systems are in perfect working order.

• Keep bathrooms spotless and fresh smelling!  Place all personal care items out of sight.  Tile, fixtures, shower doors, tubs must be shining and immaculate.  Remove all rust and mildew stains; neatly re-caulk around the top edges of the tub, countertops, etc.

• Place dishes of potpourri in rooms throughout the house or add a drop of vanilla or bath oil on light bulbs for scent.

• Keep windows, windowsills and all light fixtures clean.

• Don’t forget the storage and car parking areas – keep them organized, neat and tidy.

• Secure jewelry, cash and other valuables.

Before Each Showing:

• Open all drapes, shades and blinds and turn on ALL lights.

• Pick up clutter.

• Make beds and put away clothes and shoes.

• Give floors a quick vacuuming.

• Add some strategically placed fresh flowers.

• Place a dish of vanilla or cinnamon in a warm oven to create the aroma of fresh baking.

• Turn off the television and turn on music at low volume.

• Place pets in the garage, yard or other secured area.  Even better, take them out of the house with you. 

• Make sure all pet areas are clean and odor-free, including litter box.

• Dispose of all trash in neatly covered bins.

• Have the temperature comfortably cool.

The Actual Showing:

The selling agent will call your listing agent to set an appointment to show your home.  Your agent will contact you to determine if the time is convenient and to arrange the details.

The presence of the owner or family members makes the potential buyer feel like an intruder.  It’s best to leave the house while the buyers are touring the home.  If it is not possible to leave, excuse yourself and stay in one part of the house or outside.

If the prospective buyer or their agent asks you questions, respond honestly but diplomatically refer additional questions to your agent.  It is best not to discuss price, terms, possession or other factors with the buyer or their agent.

If a prospective buyer calls directly or comes by unexpectedly without an agent, get their name and phone number.  Explain that it is not a convenient time and say you will have your listing agent contact them.  For your benefit and protection do not allow them in your home.

After Each Showing:

We follow up with the showing agent to obtain feedback concerning the potential buyer’s feelings about how well the property fits their needs.

We evaluate the feedback and comments received from other agents that tour the property during our office and association caravans, to share with you ideas that may make the property more marketable.  We discuss price reductions and other buyer incentives with you if offers are not being received within the first three weeks of listing the property.

Tips to Upgrade Your Home for Potentially Increased Property Value

A home is one of the largest financial investments all of us make. While property values over time are determined by national variables, the economy and local market conditions, the care and upkeep of a property is also a crucial element toward selling your property.  Whether you plan to add more rooms to create extra space, upgrade the kitchen with new appliances or just put your home on the market, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation will work with you to develop home improvement tips to increase the appeal of your property.