by John F. Krause, REALTOR. John is a sales executive with Searchlight Realty on Hilton Head Island, SC and holds both the GRI and CRS designations.
1. Lighten Up!
Bring on the light! Open all draperies
unless there's an objectionable view. Turn on the lights in rooms for a
bright, cheerful look. Lamps and indirect lighting are preferable, but
use overhead lights if that's all there is.
2. Create Nice Aromas
Make your house smell nice. Open the windows
to let fresh air in. Set out fragrant, fresh flowers. Bake cookies or bread,
not strong-smelling vegetables like cabbage or cauliflower.
3. Pets are Nice, But...
Not everyone loves them. Pets should be
out of the house, if not off the property. Some people don't like dogs,
and others don't like cats or object to them because they're allergic.
4. Add Music
Soft background music creates a relaxed
mood that prompts buyers to linger and enjoy. But it's better to have no
music at all than to have it too loud. And never have the TV on when the
house is being shown.
5. Your Presence
Most buyers won't relax and closely inspect
a home if the owners are present so try to arrange to turn your house over
to the REALTOR for showings. If you must remain at home, refrain from talking
unless questions are directed to you. Trust the agent's professional abilities.
6. Your Closets
Keep closet doors closed except for walk-in
closets. Have those doors slightly ajar and turn on the lights to draw
attention to this special feature.