Preparing Your Home for Sale

Before showing your home to potential buyers you should make sure it's in tip-top condition. Try to put yourself in the buyer's shoes and think back to what first attracted you to your home and highlight these features.

• Keep lawns and gardens well maintained;
• Ensure garage and porch areas are free of clutter and refuse;
• Replace any damaged roof shingles, eaves troughs or cracked windows;
• Wash windows, gutters and doors;
• Ensure kitchen and bathrooms are sparkling clean;
• Repair dripping facets and showerheads;
• Steam clean or replace carpets if necessary;
• Thoroughly clean every room in the house, removing all clutter;
• Repaint dingy walls or kitchen cabinets with a neutral colour;

Remember, the more effort put into the initial clean up, the easier it will be to keep your home looking its best for viewings. As well, keep in mind that rooms that are too cluttered will give the impression that they're much smaller than their true size. Try to create a feeling of spaciousness when conducting your spruce-up.

Pre-showing checklist

• As a courtesy to buyers, leave the house while it is being viewed;
• Keep pets out of the way - preferably out of your house during the showing;
• Ensure that every room is tidy, well aired and adequately lit;
• Don't keep money, jewellery and small valuables in plain sight during a showing;
• Open drapes to maximize natural light;
• Use finishing touches like fresh flowers and candles.

By following these relatively simple tips, you'll feel proud of your home and potential purchasers are sure to appreciate its beauty.