Menu
The back yard should be tidy. If you have a pool or spa, keep it freshly maintained and constantly cleaned. For those that have dogs, be sure to constantly keep the area clear of "debris." If you have swing sets or anything elaborate for your kids, it probably makes more sense to remove them than to leave them in place. They take up room, and you want your back yard to appear as spacious as possible, especially in newer homes where the yards are not as large.
The front door should be especially sharp, since it is the entryway into the house. Polish the door fixture so it gleams. If the door needs refinishing or repainting, make sure to get that done.
If you have a cute little plaque or shingle with your family name on it, remove it. Even if it is just on the mailbox. You can always put it up again once you move. Get a new plush door mat, too. This is something else you can take with you once you move.
Make sure the lock works easily and the key fits properly. When a homebuyer comes to visit your home, the agent uses the key from the lock box to unlock the door. If there is trouble working the lock while everyone else stands around twiddling their thumbs, this sends a negative first impression to prospective homebuyers.
copyright 2000 by Terry Light and RealEstate ABC, 2002
Cobwebs stuck all around the outside light fixtures and on the "outdoor" ceiling fan, blades is also a big turn off. Pressure wash if you must!
If your front door is beat up by the weather or the dog, either refinish it or get a new one. If your home is not appealing on the exterior, chances are, buyers won't want to stop and come in; they'll assume the interior looks the same way.
Dead Grass or Weeds growing all over the front yard is also a "negative." If you don't like to do yard work, hire a yard man and get that front yard in "showable" attractive condition. If the cinch bugs ate your grass roots last summer (from lack of watering), then you must re-sod the yard before you put it on the market.
FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS, CALL MARY ANN LIPSEY!
281-723-8200 or 281-353-8744 springrealtor@sbcglobal.net
