Prepare in Advance |
Sweep the street in front of your house and all steps and walkways |
Make sure the siding on your home is clean and all windows are washed |
A fresh coat of paint can be the best investment. Even if you just paint trim and the front door and shutters |
Check all the lights to make sure they work; install new light bulbs if needed |
Maximize Curb Appeal |
Water and mow the lawn |
Trim the trees / rake the leaves / plant colorful flowers |
Put away bicycles and toys, gardening equipment and anything else lying outside in the yard |
Put the car in the garage, or park it on the street, to provide ample parking for prospective buyers |
Clean up any pet droppings in the yard |
Offer Fact Sheets/Brochures |
Gather previous inspection reports to have on hand |
Make a list of all home improvements, new appliances and / or fixtures |
Neaten Up the Home |
Remove all clutter including items such as small appliances, gadgets, toys and memorabilia |
Organize the kitchen cabinets to demonstrate how much room you have |
Hide or temporarily disconnect obtrusive extension cords |
Put away the newspapers and magazines |
Put away the cat litter box and store the pets’ toys |
Bake cookies or burn scented candles to make the house smell pleasant |
Be sure to place valuable items in a secure place, i.e. cash, jewelry, medications, etc. |
Invite the Neighbors |
Ensure your sales associate has sent communications to the neighbors informing them of the date of the open house |
Invite the neighborhood for a private showing one-hour prior to the public open house |
Use Signs to Attract Potential Buyers |
Have real estate sales associate put up “Open House” signs at nearby, well-traveled intersections with directions to the house |
Ensure your sales associate has put up the “Open House” sign in the front lawn |
Notes:
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