Make Your Home Shine

Make a good first impression. Have lawns and landscaping trimmed and neat and your yard free of refuse.

Welcome your prospects. Your front door should be clean and shining. A fresh coat of paint or varnish may be just what it needs.

Don't let faded walls and woodwork reduce the appeal of your home. An investment in fresh paint, possibly even wallpaper, can pay you dividends in a quicker sale at a higher price.

Let the sunshine in. Open drapes and curtains to show how cheerful your home can be. Don't forget clean windows! Turn on the lights to make it feel warm and inviting, especially for an evening inspection.

Make your kitchen and baths sparkle. Fix any leaky faucets and repair damaged or discolored caulking around tubs and showers. Keep countertops uncluttered and spacious-feeling.

Spotless carpets and rugs, and fresh, clean curtains and drapes tell of your careful maintenance. The home that is in "move-in condition" is the most desirable.

Little things mean a lot. Make sure your doors don't stick or have loose knobs. Do the same for your windows and cabinets. Fix all those minor flaws that will detract from your home's value. People do notice them.

Show off your closets and storage areas. Make them look bigger by having them neat and well-organized. Display the full value of attic, basement and other utility spaces (including crawl spaces) by removing unnecessary articles and debris. Brighten dark, dull basements and show their potential by painting walls.

Make the rooms of your home appear as spacious as they really are. Remove any and all excess furniture to create a good traffic pattern and show off your floor plan to best advantage.