q Tidy up outside – the yard, porch, and garage. Dispose of all refuse.
q Thoroughly clean the front door and doorbell – it will create that vital first impression.
q Wash windows and screens.
q Lighting is a welcome sign. Be sure all light sockets have clean bulbs. Open all drapes and window coverings and turn on all lights before each showing.
q Tidy up inside – wash dishes, put away clothes, straighten up newspapers, make up beds with attractive spreads.
q Dress up windows with freshly laundered curtains.
q If any painting is needed – especially in the kitchen – do it now. A $20 investment in paint may save $100's in price reduction.
q Bathrooms and kitchens sell homes. They must sparkle.
q Keep pets out of the way. Some prospects may be annoyed by the distraction. Others divert their attention away from the house.
q Leave the property when it is being shown. When potential buyers don’t feel like intruders, they spend more time touring the house.
q If it is impossible to leave during the showing, be as inconspicuous as possible. Greet your guests at the door and let them know where you will be (preferably out of earshot: in the backyard, taking a walk around the block, etc.). This puts them at ease to comment freely on your home and ask questions of their agent. Also, tell them if you would like the door left locked or unlocked and if you would like the lights left on or off (if you will be outside during the showing).
If you are at home during a showing and the agent or clients ask you questions, politely tell them that the agent would be happy to discuss your home’s features with them. Let the showing agent, who knows the prospect’s likes and dislikes, show the house. The showing agent can best emphasize those features that will have the most appeal to his or her client. Let the agent discuss price, terms, possession and other factors with the prospect. The buyer’s agent is eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favorable conclusion.
- NUMBER1EXPERTS™ 
