An attractive exterior is the key to bringing most prospective buyers to your doorstep.  Some keys to improve your home's "curb appeal" are:

• Keep the lawn trimmed and fertilized.
  

• Keep shrubs trimmed, also mulch or decorative stone might help.
  

• Weed flower beds and add charm by putting a flower in a pot by the door.
  

• Remove oil stains from driveway.
  

• Clean and straighten sagging gutters.
  

• Remove worn or warped shingles.
  

Start with a complete spring cleaning, sort out items no longer needed.  Hold a yard sale to convert these items into cash for repairs if needed.

• Sweep garage and basement floors.
  

• Wash windows.
  

• Clean and neatly arrange closets and cabinets.
  

• Keep kitchen appliances clean; a clean oven is a plus.
  

• Wash walls and woodwork.
  

• Tile, grout, and shower doors should be free of soap film.
  

• Clear off countertops to make the kitchen look spacious and neat.
  

• Remove old newspapers and magazines from site.
  

To attain top-dollar try these simple decorating tips:

• A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color.
  

• Re-stain or paint chipped woodwork.
  

• Replace torn or spoiled wallpaper, carpeting or draperies (neutral colors).
  

• Flowers make your home more attractive.
  

• Adjust your window treatments to allow maximum light into rooms.
  

• A seasonal door decoration adds warmth to a home.
  

• A new shower ;curtian can perk up a bathroom.
  

• Remove all 'clutter' from shelves and tables.
  

Minor defects suggest neglect to a buyer.  These flaws if repaired reassure potential buyers as to the overall good condition of the home.

• Check windows for proper working order.
  

• Fix leaky faucets & toilets.
  

• Make sure closet & cabinet doors close properly.
  

• Adjust overhead doors to ensure proper fit.
  

• Visually inspect central heating, air conditioning and water heater, touch up paint, repair chipped plaster and nail holes.
  

• Check doorbell to ensure proper working order.
  

• Badly scratched hardwood floors should be polished or refinished.
  

• Replace light bulbs and clean fixtures.
  

• Lubricate squeaky doors.
  

First Impressions are crucial. Pretend you're a buyer seeing your home for the first time, look for the obvious things.

• Put out doormat.
  

• Remove all clutter and children's toys from walkways.
  

• Make beds.
  

• Put a fresh tablecloth on the dining room table.
  

• Use soft lighting to create a welcome atmosphere.
  

• Turn on soft music; turn off the television.
  

• Remove all signs of a pet.
  

• Avoid unpleasant cooking odors.
  

• Place private papers and jewelery out of sight.
  

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TIPS...........

Guide to selling your home.

EXTERIOR ITEMS

REPAIR IDEAS

CLEANING

DECORATING IDEAS

SHOWING

PREPARATIONS

TN FL #1977 

KY FL #7348