First Impressions Count
In job interviews as in selling your home, first impressions are everything. If you are serious about selling your home here a few suggestions that will create a lasting impression on potential buyers.
It doesn't cost much to add a few flowers and shrubs to make the entrance way to your home very appealing. Neatly trimmed lawns and colourful flower beds show care and attention to detail. Attractive and well arranged lawn furniture is like a welcome sign inviting guests to come and sit a spell.
Bicycles, rollerblades, lawn mowers and rakes should be out of sight. The outside of your home should be free of any clutter.
Inside the home pay particular attention to hallways and stairways. Make sure there is nothing blocking the way. If your closets are cluttered, do a little spring cleaning and reorganize them.
Special attention should be paid to the two main selling features - the kitchen and the bathroom. All basic repairs should be seen to and, if necessary, a fresh coat of paint applied.
Dark stuffy houses have a hard time selling so be sure to lighten up. Open the blinds and turn on the lights and if needed add some fragrance.
Before starting any major renovations on your home, it is important to look at what renovations will give you the best return on your investment. The following is a list of industry averages.
| Renovations | Potential Payback |
|---|---|
| Swimming Pool | 16% |
| Conversion Energy Efficient | 33% |
| Home Office | 35% |
| Separate Unit Addition | 40% |
| Central Air | 43% |
| New Furnace/Heating System | 48% |
| Landscaping | 49% |
| Finished Basement | 52% |
| Family Room | 56% |
| Interior Painting | 62% |
| Exterior Painting | 62% |
| Bathroom | 71% |
| Kitchen | 73% |