Prepare Your Home To Sell

Q: Now that our children are in college or graduated, my wife and I are in a house that's too big for us. We're looking to sell our home but, unlike two years ago, it isn't a seller's market. Do you have any tips for sprucing up the place to make it more "sellable?"

A: If you have a clean and well maintained home, you will get a better response from potential buyers. The following tips can help you sell your house faster.

• Eyes are immediately drawn to anything dark or bright against a light background. If your property already has light colors, touch up small marks on the walls with a bit of paint. Fill in any holes and paint over them.
• Make all required repairs. Anything that's broken gives potential buyers a reason to offer you a lower price.
• Create a pleasant impression by placing flowers on the property — outside at the front door, in the garden, on the terrace, etc.
• Wash your curtains and carpets. Remove stains and spots completely so buyers see a clean environment.
• Bathrooms and the kitchen get the closest inspection. These rooms must be spotless and free of clutter.
• Removing some of your furniture may help a room look larger. Pack away any personal mementos so the buyer can imagine your home as their home. Clean out the closets to show the storage space.

-- Matthew Guise, http://www.home4fastsale.com