Preparing Your House for Sale

Here is a list of tips to help you prepare your current house for sale so that you'll be ready to begin your life in one of Diversified Communities' exquisite properties!

Consider a potential buyer's first impression.

Start from the curb and walk up to your house to see how you can improve the buyer's first impression. Consider things like buying a new mail box, replacing house numbers, edging the lawn and weeding front flower beds, pruning trees and shrubs in the front yard, cleaning out the gutters and placing a new welcome mat, chair or flowers on the porch. Also make sure that the roof and exterior surfaces are in the best condition possible. A freshly painted exterior can strongly influence a potential buyer's perception of the condition of the entire house.

Make the house seem as bright and spacious as possible.

Over time houses tend to get cluttered with too much furniture and personal effects. When preparing your home for sale start packing away some of these "extras" to give the living areas a simple, spacious feel. To increase brightness make sure windows aren't blocked by vegetation and heavy curtains are pulled back, light bulbs are warm and bright, and consider painting very dark walls a lighter shade.

Create an inviting atmosphere.

Use potpourri or candles to fill your home with a light, fresh scent. Don't use a scent that is too strong or might set off an allergic reaction however. Use accents such as bright flowers in the spring or a fire in the fireplace during the winter.

Pay special attention to the kitchen.

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in a house. Make sure it is exceptionally clean and uncluttered by putting countertop appliances away, cupboards and fixtures are polished, the front of the fridge is clear of personal effects and all dishes are clean and put away.

Make sure bathrooms are sparkling.

Replace old rugs and shower curtains, polish fixtures, remove stains from tubs, toilets and sinks and use bright towels, air freshener, and colorful soaps to make bathrooms inviting.

Keep pets under control.

Keep pets restricted to a limited area of the house or find temporary accommodations to minimize pet hair and odors as much as possible. Thoroughly vacuum hair and clean carpets and furniture and keep litter boxes and cages exceptionally clean and out of the way.

Spruce up the back yard.

Make sure the yard is healthy and properly trimmed, free of children's toys and clutter. Any fences or storage buildings should be freshly painted and in good condition.