1)  First impressions are lasting impressions. An inviting exterior insures inspection of the interior.

* Keep your lawn trimmed and edged, the flower beds cultivated and the yard free and clear of refuse.
* Put a fresh coat of paint on your front porch if you are at all able to.  Repair soffits & eavestroughs & clean out that garage.
* In the wintertime, remove snow and ice from the walks and porch stoop.
* Keep the interior tidy and very uncluttered. Rent space to store as many belongings as is necessary to create an open, orderly interior look. Take your valuables with you or lock them up.
* Freshen the place with a coat or two of paint in the appealing and popular colours that are recommended by your agent. Remember, professionals see dozens of homes a week, and know what’s popular & what’s not.
* Clean those windows, loosen those drapes and let the sunshine in!

2)  Three’s a crowd. More will lose the sale. Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The prospect will feel invasive, uncomfortable and without privacy and will hurry through the house.

3)  In the shadows. Please do not tag along with the prospect and agent. He/she knows the buyer’s requirements and can better emphasize the features of your house when alone. Part of the sales effort includes discussing and overcoming flaws and drawbacks, and this is better done in privacy. You will be called if needed.

4)  Love me love my dog does NOT apply in house selling. Keep pets out of the way – preferably out of the house. Allergies and aversions are extremely common.

5)  Music is mellow. But not when showing a house. Shut off the radio and television – they distract.

6)  Let your light shine. Bright is better. Consider putting higher wattage light bulbs in to illuminate any dark corners or rooms. The house will seem more spacious.

7)  Check and double check your bathroom. Bright and clean bathrooms sell many homes. The same applies to your kitchen.

8)  Step free. Prospects will do just that unless all stairways are cleared of objects. Avoid cluttered appearances and possible injuries.

9)  Putting the cart before the horse. Trying to sell furniture and furnishings to the prospects before they have purchased the house often loses the sale. Timing is important.

10)  A word to the wise. Do not discuss price, terms, possession, even neighbourhood rumours, gossip or other factors with the customers. Refer them to me. This is my job and I have the experience and training to bring the negotiations to a favourable conclusion. If ever in doubt – just ask me.