Selling Tips

First Impressions are lasting

The front door greets the prospect so make sure it is clean & scrubbed looking. Keep the lawn trimmed & edged & the yard free of refuse.

Decorate for a quick sale

Faded walls & worn woodwork reduce appeal. A new touch of paint will often result in a quick, profitable sale.

Fix the faucet!

Dripping water discolours sinks & suggests faulty plumbing.

Let the sunshine in

Open draperies & curtains & let the prospect see how cheerful your house can be.

Repairs can make a big difference

Loose doorknobs, sticking doors & windows, warped cabinet drawers & other minor flaws detract from the house value. Have them fixed. (When prospects see things that need attention, they begin to worry about things they can't see.

Show from top to bottom

Display the full value of your attic, basement & other utility space by removing all unnecessary articles. Brighten dark, dull basements by painting walls.

Safety first

Keep stairways clear. Avoid a cluttered appearance & possible injuries.

Make closets look bigger

Neat, well-ordered closets show that the space is ample.

Music is mellow

But now when showing a house. Turn off the blaring radio or television. Let the salesperson & buyers talk, free of disturbances

Pets underfoot?

Keep them out of the way - Preferably out of the house.

Silence is golden

Be courteous but don't force conversation with the potential buyer. He wants to inspect your house-not pay a social call. Be it ever so humble

Never apologise for the appearance of your house.

After all, it has been lived in. let the trained salesperson answer any objections-this is his/her job.

Stay in the background

The salesperson knows the buyer's requirements & can better emphasise the features of your house when you don't tag along. You will be called if needed.

Why put the cart before the horse

Trying to dispose of furniture & furnishings to the potential buyer before he has purchased the house often loses a sale.

A word to the wise

Let your realtor discuss price, terms, possession & other factors with the customer. He is eminently qualified to bring negotiations to a favourable conclusion.

Use your realtor

Show your house to prospective customers only by appointment through your real estate's office. Your co-operation will be appreciated & will help close the sale more quickly.

Arrange bedrooms neatly

Remove excess furniture & use attractive bedspreads & freshly laundered curtains.

Can you see the light?

Illumination is like a welcome sign. The potential buyer will feel a glowing warmth when you turn on all your lights for an evening inspection.

Three's a crowd

Avoid having too many people present during inspections. The potential buyer will feel like an intruder & will hurry through the house.