Before you sell you need to get busy putting on the Ritz! Because believe me, every little detail matters to a Buyer, so now is the time to get the house ready for it’s glamour shot.
Did you know? Within 15 seconds a Buyer has developed an opinion of your property. That is why I will help you look at your house through a “Buyers eyes” and suggest changes and enhancements that give the right first impression! Below are a few tips:
EXTERIOR
- Keep grass mowed, flower beds mulched, and weeds pulled

- Pick up lawn tools, newspapers, toys and other miscellaneous items
- Sweep sidewalks and walkways
- Clean up after pets
- Touch up paint on doors and mailboxes
- Repair any screens or windows that are damaged
- Replace broken light fixtures and light bulbs
- Clear gutters of debris
- Plant some seasonal flowers in beds or planters to give the yard some color
INTERIOR
- Start with a good spring cleaning and then a light cleaning will work well before showings
- Turn off the television; play soft background music

- Prepare tables and/or bedrooms with fresh flowers
- Open drapes and shades, as well as turn on lights to make your house look bright and cheerful
- Set a comfortable temperature for the house
- Keep pets out of the way; confine them to a crate or a garage area for the duration of the showing- even if they are friendly
- Clean bathroom and kitchen surfaces and set out clean towels
- Make a quick pass with a broom and a Swiffer type wet mop
- ODORS- eliminate them! Make sure there are no pet, cooking, or other unpleasant odors. Use a pleasant room fragrance- stay away from florals and choose neutral or warm scents (think fresh linen or vanilla)
SPECIAL TIPS
- Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medicine, weapons and other valuables
- It is best to leave the house during showings; this allows the prospective buyers to speak openly with their Real Estate Professional
- If someone asks to see your property and they are not working with an agent you should refer them to your listing agent
- Be prepared for showings at any time of the week but expect more of them on weekends
Interested in learning the possible value of your home? Need help with a personal plan for Putting on the Ritz to SELL your house? Give me a ring to make an appointment and find out why my clients say I’m one of the best Real Estate Professionals in Knoxville.
If you would like more information on the process of selling a home, you can download my free Home Seller’s Guide Book right now. Just fill out the brief contact form below and a copy will be emailed to you directly. Don’t worry, I do not spam!
Post by Shannon Foster-Boline



