Open House Checklist     

 

Open House (and showing) checklist
 
1. Curb Appeal – Make Buyers say “I want to see that one” when they drive by.
Make sure lawn is cut; driveway is sealed or if in the winter clear all walkways of snow and ice. Clean out overflowing gutters and make sure landscaping is neat and trimmed. Flowers and shrubs add value to your home and you may want to invest in a few to spruce up the outside decor.
 
2. First Impressions – you don’t get a second chance at a first impression.
The front walk way, front door and what the buyer sees when they first step inside your home is their first impression. Make sure there are no toys, or clutter on the front walk and porch. The storm door glass and windows should be freshly cleaned. The Front door and door trim should have a fresh coat of paint. When they walk in the door do they say “Wow”? Make sure there are no obstructions and it is clean and free of any odors. (Don’t cover odors with obvious air sprays)
 
3. De-clutter -A cluttered home is a turn off to potential buyers. De-cluttering makes your home look much more spacious. Think of it as every box you pack and remove from your property is worth a hundred dollars more in your pocket when selling.
 
4. Clean it Up – Deep cleaning (use a professional if necessary)
Not just everyday cleaning such as vacuuming, sweeping dusting and cleaning out the bathtubs is enough for a beautiful showing. Steam clean carpets, vacuum upholstery; dry clean the draperies, clean often neglected areas such as on top of the fridge, cabinet interiors, oven and cobwebs in corners and basements. If this is a daunting task it may be worthwhile to employ the services of a maid service.
 
5. Revive Imperfections. A fresh coat of paint or stain will freshen up any room and eliminate scuffs scratches and stains. Finish all home improvement projects as incomplete work will deter buyers.
 
6. Scent. Ask your realtor to help you identify odors such as pets, smoking, laundry, mold and mildew, cooking smells and garbage. Do not cover these smells with air fresheners, address the problem and eliminate them.
 
7. Repairs - Make a list of all repairs made to the home such as new electrical wiring, new roof, new furnace etc. You may want to consider having a pre listing home inspection done to ease potential buyer’s minds about your home. This home inspection will show you any potential issues that may be deal breakers when you do get an offer. If the inspection shows that everything is good then its also a good selling feature when listing your home. You can leave a copy of the report on your table for potential buyers to see.
 
8. Remove Valuables -Before allowing strangers in your home, stash all valuables in a safe place. Things such as jewelry, cameras, identification, wallets, etc should be locked away. Make sure your home owner’s insurance policy is up to date and remove fragile items out of harms way.
 
9. Work Area - Prepare an area for your agent to display sell sheets and business cards and have a place for other agents to drop off their cards and information.
 
10. Property Photos - If your home is for sale in the winter months it is a good idea to have a few photos in an album or on display for potential buyers to see the property in the spring and summer months. Pictures featuring gardens in full bloom or the pool open and inviting are great sales tools.