The front door is usually the first feature of a house that buyers see and feel. How do you ensure it makes a grand first impression? That’s easy.

• Put on a fresh coat of paint.
• Replace worn or faded door handles and locks.
• Install a brass kick plate at the bottom of the door.
• Clean the exterior door frame. Make it shine.

These may seem like little things. But they can make a big difference to the first impression your house makes on potential buyers.

Say you’re trying to sell a used car. Imagine that it’s a desirable make and model. The mileage is low. Overall, it’s in great condition… except, that is, for the body. Unfortunately, there are a few areas where the paint is scratched and there are a couple of dents and rust spots, too.

Are you going to have trouble selling that car? Probably. That’s because potential buyers will have trouble seeing past the condition of the body and appreciating the true value of the vehicle.

The same thing can happen when you’re trying to sell your home.

Everything about it could be wonderful, but if the paint on the walls is faded in spots, and there are dents, scruffs and holes, buyers may notice those things more than the other more important features of your property.

So it’s a good idea to inspect your walls to make sure they look great.

There are numerous products available at your local home improvement centre for repairing gouges and holes. It’s a relatively easy do-it-yourself job.

Keep in mind that applying a new coat of paint not only makes the walls look like new, but also tends to brighten up the entire room.

When you put your property up for sale, you want to make sure that potential buyers get all the information they need on the features of your home and its surrounding area. If, for example, a buyer doesn’t realize there is a great school just a couple of blocks away, he might cross your property off his shortlist. An effective way to make sure something like that doesn’t happen is to create three lists.

#1: The “I’ll miss it” list.

Chances are, there are things about your home that you’re really going to miss when you move. It may be the spacious living room, ideal for entertaining. Or the nearby park with scenic trails, perfect for walking and biking. Or the large deck that has just the right combination of shade and sun to make spending time on it pleasant.
Whatever you’ll miss put it on the list! Chances are, those are features that will also interest buyers.

#2: The “Just the facts” list.

What are the facts about your property that a buyer needs to know in order to consider purchasing it? This may be a very long list including such items as total square footage, number of bedrooms, number of washrooms, property taxes, size of yard, and more. This list should also include special features such as finished basement, upgraded kitchen features, and local golf course.

#3: The “repairs and improvements” list.

Buyers are interested in the state of repair of your home, and in any improvements you have made to it. On this list, include all repairs you have done during the past three years and, if possible, attach receipts. It’s especially important to include anything that has been replaced, such as a furnace or roof shingles.

If you’ve done any major remodelling or renovations, include the details on those, too.

Want more tips on selling your home quickly and for the best price? Call today.