OUR TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE

FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE VITAL
Buy a new doormat, polish brass fittings, mow the lawn, arrange attractive pots/plants at the front of the house.

OUTSIDE
Prune trees and shrubs if they are blocking your best views. Clean windows and screens. Spruce up the exterior by washing down or repainting. Clean guttering, brush away leaves and cobwebs, and leave washing off the line.

FIXING LEAKING TAPS
Make sure the sinks are sparkling.

CLEANING
If time is a problem, think about having your home professionally cleaned, especially the windows and floors.

PROSPECTIVE BUYERS NEED TO FEEL COMFORTABLE IN YOUR HOME
Make sure the rooms are uncluttered and there is space to move around freely.

PLACEMENT OF FURNITURE
Perhaps the furniture could be re-arranged to highlight a feature such as a fireplace, or a window that has a pleasant outlook.

THAT SPECIAL AMBIENCE
Place a vase of fresh flowers in the entrance or lounge room; have some herbs or pot pourri in the kitchen to give a frersh aroma; make sure the blinds are open to take advantage of natural light; make sure the beds are made properly, there is no clutter, and turn on bedside lamps.

INDOOR TEMPERATURE
For inspection in summer months, make sure the house is as cool as possible. During the winter months, ensure the rooms are warm and if you have an open fire, make sure the fire has been lit.

SPARKLING KITCHEN AND BATHROOM
Put away all dishes in the kitchen. The only dishes that should be on view "feature" pieces such as a special platter or fruit bowl (filled with fresh fruit!). Make sure there are fresh towels in the bathroom and that the bathroom vanity is free of toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc. Wipe over the shower recess and basin with an aromatic cleaner just before inspection.

PETS
You love them, but maybe buyer's won't. Keep them outside during open inspections. MAny buyers are afraid of animals and some are even allergic to them.

SMELL
Watch what you cook the night before! Cooking, pets, dampness and smoking can all give your home a nasty smell. Perhaps have carpets and curtains cleaned and open windows before inspections. Fresh air smells best.