Seller’s Checklist

Start with your lawn…It’s the first thing that prospective buyers see.

• Is the lawn trimmed and edged?
• Are flower beds clear of leaves, weeds & grass?
• Is appeal of the house enhanced by adequate flowers and mulch?
• Are light posts, gas grills, outdoor lights, mailboxes, fences or basketball hoops in good condition?
• Are children’s objects removed, such as old swing sets, sandboxes, etc.?
• Have any imperfections to lawn such as bare spots, big holes, ruts, weeds or crabgrass been removed or repaired?
• Does the lawn have an overall manicured look?
• If it is winter, have snow and ice been removed from driveway, sidewalks and steps?

Your front door welcomes the prospect…A door decoration adds a warm, inviting touch.

• Is the door clean? Does it need a coat of paint?
• Are light fixtures, door knockers and doorknobs in good condition?
• Does the doorbell work?
• Are storm doors clean and in good condition?
• Is the front step/porch in good repair?

Decorating helps assure top dollar and a quick sale…A little Liquid Gold does wonders for scratched and dry-looking wood.

• Are walls clean?
• Has outdated wallpaper been removed and walls painted?
• Are all nail and molly holes filled?
• Are there any cork or mirror tiles, shelves, metal brackets, plant brackets, stickers, murals or makeshift cabinets that should be removed?
• Should the ceiling be textured to cover flaws?
• Are switchplates clean?

Clean windows show the bright side of your home…Let the prospective buyers see how cheerful your home can be.

• Have curtains and draperies been opened to highlight walls and ceilings?
• Will window coverings appeal to the general public?
• Do sheers cover all windows facing the street?

A clean kitchen is a must…Many buyers judge the housekeeping by the oven and stove.

• Is the interior of the oven, stove and dishwasher stain free?
• Have the cabinets been cleared of all but essential items?
• Are the counter tops clean and clear of clutter?
• Is the Formica stained? (Baking soda removes stains without marring the finish).

Sparkling bathrooms help sell your home…Spick and span throughout is the way to judge bathrooms.

• Are shower doors, ceramic tile and grouting clean and free of soap film?
• Are fixtures polished and free of water marks?
• Have appliques in the tub been removed?
• Is lighting adequate?
• Does the toilet seat need to be replaced?
• Is the exhaust fan working? Is it quiet?
• Is there a window available? Open it and let the fresh air in.

Avoid cluttered appearances…Perhaps now is the time to plan a garage sale.

• Do you have excess furniture which makes the rooms appear cramped?
• Are toys and other articles picked up?
• Is the stairway clear? This is essential!

Make the closets look as large as possible…Remove or pack items that can be stored elsewhere.

• Is the closet neat and organized?
• Are wall surfaces in need of paint?
• Are shelving and hardware in good condition?
• If the closets have lights, are the bulbs bright?
• Do the closet doors operate smoothly and quietly?

From top to bottom…Remove all unnecessary items.

• Have you removed all excess items from the basement, garage and other utility spaces?
• Is there a damp smell in the basement or crawl space? Place a bag of limestone the area.
• Are the walls dark and dull? If so, they can easily be brightened with a coat of paint.
• Do all the lights work?
• Are the lights bright enough?
• Are window areas clean and sealed properly?
• Are window wells free of debris?
• Is the floor covering in good condition?
• Do the steps or handrails need paint or repair?
• Is the basement immaculate?
• Is the sump pump clear and operable?

Check major appliances…A little correction could be worth many dollars.

• Is the furnace filter clean?
• Is the attic fan funning quietly?
• Is the exterior of the water heater clean?
• Does the water softener work? Is the exterior clean?
• Is the water heater in good condition? Drain a pan of water to remove rust particles.
• Does the furnace work properly?
• When was the air conditioner last checked?
• Does the air filter work properly? Is it clean?
• Do kitchen appliances work properly? (Dishwasher, range, disposal, exhaust fan, compactor, refrigerator, oven)
• Does the garage door opener work properly and quietly?

Minor flaws suggest neglect to the prospect… Have them fixed to get top dollar for your house.

• Do the screen doors close tightly?
• If the property has a storage shed, is it in good condition?
• Is there a dog house, and should it be removed?
• Is the driveway in good condition?
• Are gutters and downspouts in good repair?
• Do gutters drain away from the house?
• Is the roof in good repair?
• Are the hardwood floors in excellent condition?
• Are vinyl floors in good repair?