When presenting your home to prospective buyers, first impressions are crucial. Buyers begin judging your home the moment they see it, and generally they prefer homes that are well-maintained, clean and clutter – free – homes they can picture themselves living in. That is why home improvements – particularly if they address the anticipated needs of buyers – can boost your home’s sale ability and sale price.

Here are few proven, cost-effective tips that will help your home look its best:

Exterior

• Mow and rake the lawn, trim hedges, wed and edge gardens
• Sweep sidewalks and driveway, pick up any litter
• Repair gutters and eaves, touch up exterior paint
• Plant extra flowers for color, or place potted plants beside the front door
• Clean or paint front door, polish front door hardware, ensure doorbell works

Interior

• Clean and tidy the entrance, clear stairs and halls, store all excess furniture
• Brighten interiors with fresh, light-toned paint
• Brighten rooms by installing high wattage light bulbs and turning them on
• Shampoo carpets, clean and wax floors
• Organize kitchen countertops – removing appliances if necessary-to make them look spacious
• Clean kitchen countertops, cabinets, appliances, washer and dryer
• Organize and clean out closets to make them look larger
• Clean and freshen bathrooms, put out clean towels, minimize clutter
• Clean mirrors and windows so they sparkle
• Organize and clean garage and basement
• Perform necessary minor repairs and touch-ups to walls, windows, fixtures, etc.

Tips For Showings And Open Houses

• Be absent so buyers feel more comfortable making comments
• Light the fireplace, open the drapes, play quiet background music
• Keep pets outdoors

These are just a few ideas to get you started. I know what today’s buyers are looking for and can provide more ideas that will maximize your home’s appeal. Remember, a few easy improvements can produce big returns on your investment.