Pre-Sale Checklist - Folsom Home Source

Fully preparing your home for sale can make a considerable difference in the time it takes to sell it. You can help eliminate buyer objections before they arise by making necessary repairs and improvements, some of which are suggested below.

Getting Started

Start by making a list of all those little (and big) things that need to be repaired or done and do them. If they bother you, they could bother a potential buyer
Walk through each room and look at it from the eyes of a buyer. What looks messy, dirty, or distracting?
Thoroughly clean the house from top to bottom. Having it professionally cleaned is a good idea.
Have the carpets cleaned.
Wash the windows.
Make sure all window coverings are clean. Remove or replace them if they are dated.
Open curtains and shades to show off any nice views and to let in natural light.
If dated, make sure walls have a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color.
Replace all burned out light bulbs. If areas of the home are particularly dark, add a lamp or brighter bulb.
De-bug and clean your light fixtures.
Take care of any squeaking doors.
Make sure all door handles are working properly.
Fix dripping faucets.
Pack up valuables and prescriptions. You’re going to have people viewing your home when you are not there.
Pack up family photos, collections, and personal items.
Make sure the art hung on your walls is properly hung and attractive. Pack up anything that might not appeal to a broad group of people.
Make sure that any houseplants are healthy and look good. If they do not, get rid of them.
Fireplace / mantel areas are usually a focal point. Make sure this area is very clean, inviting, and staged.
If you have a lot of furniture, consider removing some. Too much furniture makes rooms appear smaller.
Situate furniture into inviting, conversational areas.
If bookshelves look messy and cluttered, pack up some or all of the books.
Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are in good working order and compliant with local requirements.

Outdoors

Spruce up your garden and lawn; trim shrubbery and replace dead plants
Yard and patio should be neat; outdoor furniture should be clean and in good shape
Clean or paint your front door – remember first impressions last the longest!
Manicure your front yard; make sure your driveway and entryway are free of clutter

Exterior

Check that house numbers, mailbox, and exterior lighting are all in good condition
Touch up with fresh paint as needed
Inspect chimney for cracks or earthquake damage
Repair loose trim, drain pipes, and fencing
Clean stains and window screens

Living Areas

Apply fresh paint as needed… think about brightening your interiors with neutral-toned paint
Clean carpets
Replace burnt out light bulbs
Clean the fireplace and remove smoke stains from the wall and mantle
Clean window coverings
Replace damaged window blinds