YOU DO NOT GET A SECOND CHANCE TO MAKE A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION

Lawns and gardens – cut grass, edge walks, trim hedges, weed garden and tidy all areas; walks swept, decks and patios cleared of leaves & debris; snow and ice cleared, walkways sanded or salted.

Exterior – fix or wash railings, steps, storms, screens and doors; house number easy to see; eavestroughs, downspouts & soffits painted and in good repair; garage/carport clean and tidy; doorbell works; porch and foyer clean and tidy.

Windows – sparkling clean windows compliment both interior and exterior.

General Condition – repair defects; maintain overall tidiness; door knobs and cupboard doors latch tight; burned out bulbs replaced; squeaky doors oiled; air conditioner on or fireplace lit; drapes open; carpets vacuumed.

Plumbing – repair dripping faucets, leaky toilets.

Lights – replace all burned out bulbs, faulty switches.

Convey a feeling of Spaciousness – store unneeded items to “enlarge” room size.

Kitchen – stove, refrigerator, sink and countertops should be spotless.

Bathrooms – neat, spotless and fresh; repair caulking around tub; scrub tile with mildew remover.

Closets - organize all closets and cupboards as untidy or crowded closets suggest inadequate storage space.

Valuables – jewellery and valuables should be locked safely away or taken with you; valuable property (such as objects of art, vases, figurines, mementoes) should be situated out of reach or locked away.

During Showings – Try to be out of the home, if possible; occupants and pets can keep buyers from feeling at ease.

Turn on all lights

Make sure your home is fresh – strong cooking, animal or smoking odours can ruin a sale; fresh flowers in various rooms and background music playing quietly make the home more inviting.