Tidy Up
Take a good, objective look at the condition of your home.

• Is the paint and wood trim fresh?

• Is the carpet clean?

• Are you hardwood floors in good shape?

• Are your windows sparkling?

• Are tiles chipped and in need of repair?

• Does the front of the house look inviting and attractive?

Clean, well-kept homes with an updated appearance always have an advantage, and a little decorating appeal can go a long way. Be sure you have no clutter. Potential buyers don't want to see your "messiness." They need to envision themselves living in the home. Consider that new home builders spend fortunes “marketing” model homes that are picture-perfect with attractive wallpaper, carpet, furniture and accessories for a reason.

They create a mood that makes the potential buyer fall in love. Would-be buyers, after all, are looking for a “lifestyle” as well as shelter. You don’t have to buy new furniture to create charm, but you can get rid of clutter, freshen up paint and carpet, make the most of window coverings, and add a few key accessories in order to send out welcoming signals. You want to deliver the message that life will be the perfect in your house.