Orcas Island Real Estate
Debbie and Rusty Post

Home Prep Basics

Everything from floors to windows must be spotless, including the oven and other major appliances. Skylights should be crystal-clear, too. Do not forget to make bathrooms shine!

Set an ambiance.  Studies have shown that soothing smells in the house can help make a house seem more like a home. Like baking cookies, cakes or pies, and even spaghetti. People like to be reminded of good memories, and cooking and baking has shown to do that. Also think about playing some soft background music and light candles if you are present when the buyers are viewing your house. This makes the place seem cozy and inviting. Small little touches can make all the difference on attracting a buyer!

Inside Tasks

• Put away small kitchen appliances and other items that are sitting on countertops and tables.

• Remove photographs and other small items from table-tops.

• Organize closets and cabinets.

• Repair dripping faucets and showerheads.

• Spruce up a kitchen in need of more major remodeling by investing in new cabinet knobs, new curtains, or a coat of neutral paint.

• Introduce lifestyle accessories and make your home as comfortable and attractive as possible. Set the dining room table with your best dishes. Put out your only-for-company towels. Make up the spare bed. Hang some fresh curtains. Put some logs in the fireplace. Use your imagination.

• The kitchen may not make a prospective buyer want your house, but it sure can kill a deal - it is often the most important room in the house.

Outside Tasks

• Clean the drain gutters. Buyers nearly always comment if gutters are full of leaves and it makes them question other maintenance issues.

• Store or organize items that make the yard look messy.

• Make your front entry inviting. Decorate it, paint the door, or buy a new door. It's the first look at your house, so make it a good one.

• And if you want to an investment in the outside of your house, remember that a deck will return more on your investment dollar than any other item on your list.

If the Home Is Vacant

Vacant homes often home buyers with a blast of stale or mildew-laden air, and once buyers smell mildew, they are out the door. During cold months, the interior of a house without heat always feels colder than it is outside. Leaving the heat or air conditioning running while a home is on the market reduces odors and makes the house more inviting.

Keep the lawn and landscaping tidy, even if you have to hire someone to do it.

Get a buyer's-eye view

Walk up to your home and pretend you've never seen it before. What do you notice? How do you feel about what you see? Does the home seem inviting? Well-maintained? Would you want to buy this home? Your answer should be an enthusiastic yes!