The first impression is often the lasting impression!

People usually decide within two minutes whether they like your house.

Here are some tested and effective suggestions to make your home more presentable.

Outside - Clean up, Fix up, Paint up

• Invest in landscaping where it can be seen at first sight. A well-manicured lawn, neatly clipped shrubbery, and cleanly swept walks create a good first impression.
• Consider putting flowers outside the front door.
• Repair broken outdoor steps.
• Put a bright coat of paint on your mailbox.

Kitchen

• The kitchen is the most important room in your house. Make it bright and attractive. If dull, paint cabinets and put up lively curtains.
• Clean the ventilating hood over the stove.
• Remove any appliances that you keep on the counters-it will make the room larger.

Bathroom

• Repair dripping faucets.
• Keep fresh towels in the bathrooms.
• If sink and bathtub drain slowly, unclog them.

Living Areas

• Wash windows.
• Replace broken glass.
• Mend torn screens.
• Replace burned-out light bulbs.  Make sure every light works.

When your house is being shown

• Have a nice aroma smell in your house- light  a candle or burn some potpourri.
• Avoid having dirty dishes in the sink or on the counters.
• Keep draperies and shades open to let light in– this will make the room appear larger.
• Take your family away if the agent is holding an open house.
• Refer direct inquiries you receive about seeing your house to your REALTOR to take advantage of his/her professional skills in selling your home.