First impressions are critical in many aspects of life, and it’s particularly true in real estate. The instant potential buyers stop in front of a home, their minds start comparing it to other properties they’ve seen. A savvy seller wants to capitalize on that reaction and make that initial introduction warm and welcoming, inviting someone to enter, stay a while, and get to know their home.

#1 Improve Curb Appeal

Make your home attractive outside, and people will want to see more. Consult a professional landscaper if you feel you need a wow factor.

Cut the grass and trim the shrubbery.
Trim tree branches away from the roof.
Keep the hose neatly coiled.
Add potted plants by the entranceway for a quick touch of color.
Paint the front door if needed.
Remove spider webs and ants from around the doorway.
Polish brass doorknobs and fixtures.

#2 Clean the Rooms

You want the rooms to shine, so hire professional cleaners if you need help.

Vacuum carpets and steam clean if necessary.
Polish wood floors, tables, and bookcases.
Clean grout on tile floors.
Wash windows inside and out.
Polish stainless steel kitchen appliances.
Clean the oven and burners.
Clean the bathrooms so that they sparkle.

#3 Remove Clutter

Let your visitors imagine that they are living in your home by removing clutter.

Clear everything off your kitchen countertops. Nobody needs to see your toaster or other tabletop appliances.
Put toys away.
Remove unnecessary furniture from a cramped room.

#4 Control Odors

The smell of the space is often the first thing someone notices as they walk into your home. So address unpleasant odors at the source while avoiding strong deodorizers to cover them up.

Keep the cat litter box clean, or remove it during showings.
Put stinky sneakers outside or in the garage if possible.
Bake cookies and let the smell waft through the rooms.
Be careful about using air fresheners, which can signal a problem with the home.

#5 Turn on the Lights

Let your potential buyers see what they’re buying, so make the environment light and bright.

Turn the lights on in every room, including closets.
Open the blinds and let the sunshine in through your lovely clean windows.
Do not turn the electricity off in vacant homes. Leave it connected until after the showings, home inspection, and appraisal.

#6 Leave the Home During Showings

Most people don’t want the seller to point out the things they like best about the home. They want to discover things for themselves. Therefore, when a real estate agent accompanies the buyers, leave the property.

Visitors stay longer if the owner isn’t there.
Potential buyers may hesitate to open closets if the owner is present.
People want to be able to visualize themselves living in the home. That’s more difficult to do with the owner standing nearby.
Buyers tend to whisper to each other when the owner is around, leaving their real estate agent out of the conversation. This isolation makes it more difficult for the agent to address their concerns and close the deal.

Closing Points

A home is the most expensive purchase many people make over their lifetime. So, maximize your profits when selling your home by increasing the curb appeal, inside and out.