Homes tend to sell faster and for higher prices when they show to their best advantage.

It is very important that your home show well. We’re also aware that you and your family must live there too. Develop a routine that will allow you to pick up and be prepared to show in a reasonable period without duress a 45-minute countdown, for example. That means that certain things must be done in advance. For example, beds should be made up first ting in the morning and dirty dishes placed in the dishwasher after use so that you needn’t rush around tending to this matter at the last moment. This way you can prepare for each showing in an organised un-hassled routine.

Before Each Showing:

TIDY EVERY ROOM Check counters, floors, halls and stairs. Straighten up or remove newspapers, magazines, mail, toys, clothing, recreation gear and dishes.
TURN ON ALL LIGHTS Even those in closets and storage rooms. Electric lights have an amazing capability for creating an illusion of lightness, airiness and largeness.
OPEN ALL DRAPES AND BLINDS Do all that you can to create a bright and light ambience.
THE BEDROOMS Make up the beds before you leave each day in the morning. This is a job you don’t want to have to do when you learn that the buyers will be there within the hour.
THE KITCHEN Be sure all countertops are clear and squeaky clean. Wipe down appliances. Be sure all dishes are in the dishwasher or cleaned and put away. The sink should be clear and clean.
CLEAN AIR Keep air fresheners in closets, bathrooms and kitchen. Be especially careful to keep kitchen odours fresh: coffee brewing or cinnamon cake baking in the oven have a lasting, inviting effect. Strong cooking, animal or smoking odours can ruin a sale; fresh flowers in various rooms make the home more inviting.
MUSIC Perhaps you can’t have something baking in the oven every time, but soft, pleasant background music may be very effective.
FIREPLACE A warm, cosy fire may be just the extra touch that turns the trick.
AIR CONDITIONING If the weather is warm and sultry, have it operating.
THE BATHROOMS Keep a set of fresh attractive towels in each room that you can change instantly.
THE ENTRYWAY It’s the first and last impression that your buyers will have of your home make it a good one! Check it regularly for sharpness.
DURING THE SHOWING Try to be out of the home, if possible; occupants and pets can keep buyers from feeling at ease.
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.