Most sales representatives will suggest a number of ways to market your home, however, if your agent has decided an open house would be advantageous, here are some suggestions to help make your open house successful. It’s always a good idea to spruce up the exterior and interior of your home before listing it for sale. But that doesn’t mean you have to undertake major and/or expensive project.
Just a little effort will greatly increase the perceived value of your home. After all, if you wanted to undertake a large-scale project, you probably wouldn’t be selling!
Here are some simple steps you can take to increase the perceived value of your home and make a great first impression: Exterior Appearance
Keep lawns cut
Trim hedges and shrubs
Weed and edge gardens
Clear driveway and clean up oil spills
Clean out garage
Power wash
Touch up paint
Plant colorful, inexpensive flowers – in pots if necessary
At The Front Door
Clean porch and foyer
Ensure door bell works
Repair any broken screens
Fresh paint or varnish front door
Repair door locks and key access
Create a Buying Mood
Make sure your home smells fresh and clean
Turn on lights
Turn on air conditioner/heater
Open the drapes
Light the fireplace
Create Space
Clear halls and stairs of clutter
Store surplus furniture
Clear kitchen counter and stove top
Clear closets of unnecessary clothing and “stuff”
Remove empty boxes and containers
Put away personal photos so buyers can envision the house as theirs
Maintenance
Repair leaking taps and toilets
Clean furnace and filters
Tighten door knobs and latches
Repair cracked plaster
Apply fresh coat of pain or touch up where necessary
Clean and repair windows
Repair seals around tubs and basins
Replace defective light bulbs
Oil squeaking doors
Repair squeaking floor boards
Squeaky Clean
Clean and freshen bathrooms
Clean fridge and stove (in and out)
Clean around heating vents
Clean washer and dryer
Clean carpets, drapes and window blinds | 
