Get Ready Now for a Move in '08

If you're considering making a move in '08, you've still got plenty of '07 left to get those repairs and improvements finished that will make your home not only "show ready" but a "showstopper"! 

Let's start with the exterior - that all-important first impression.  The front of the house is typically the very first photo potential buyers will see when they're shopping online, and of course it is the first thing they see when they drive up.  You want to "wow" the buyers with curb appeal sure to please even the most discriminating buyer.

Exterior:

    *     Mow and rake the lawn, trim hedges, weed and edge gardens.

     *     Sweep sidewalks and driveway.  Pick up any litter, toys, etc.

     *     Repair gutters and eaves.  Touch up exterior paint. 

     *     Replace any  rotted wood on window sills and paint to match the existing paint.

     *     Plant extra flowers for color, or place potted plants beside the front door.

     *     Clean or paint the front door, polish front door hardware, and ensure that the doorbell works.

Once inside, you want the buyer to immediately be impressed.   They are buying with all of their senses.  It's got to look great, feel great, and smell great. 

Inside:

     *     Clean and tidy the entrance, clear stairs and halls, and store all excess furniture.

     *     Brighten interiors with fresh, neutral paint.

     *     Install high wattage light bulbs to make rooms bright and welcoming.

     *     Shampoo carpets.  Clean and wax floors.  Clean any discolored tile grout, or regrout if necessary.

     *     Organize kitchen countertops, removing some of the appliances to create spacious look.

     *     Organize and clean out closets.

     *     Clean and freshen bathrooms.  Minimize clutter.

     *     Clean mirrors and windows so they sparkle.

     *     Perform any necessary minor repairs and touch-ups to walls, windows, fixtures, etc.

If you have a lot of family photos sitting around, go ahead and pack them up.  You want the buyers to picture themselves in the home, and too many pictures of you and your family can be distracting.   

One of the services we at The Shafer Team offer is a complimentary one-hour "staging" service to our clients.  Furniture placement and the right finishing touches will go a long way in making your home stand out in the crowd and achieve the results you're looking for.

Jerry and I are a husband-wife team specializing in Oldham and eastern Jefferson County in Kentucky.  Please call on us when you're ready to make your move!

Please visit our website:  www.TheShaferTeam.com.