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HOW
TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR A SHOWING
by
JEANNE WOLFE, GRI, CRS. (813)251-3239
Associates from many
real estate firms will want to show your home.
It is important that your home be both clean and attractive.
The following tips will help you create a successful
“Sell & Show” setting.
► Please allow any
associate who calls to show your home at the suggested time.
If you are not always available, it is best to allow a lockbox to
be installed on your door, or keep a key in our office to use when you
are out.
► Open all draperies
and window shades during daylight hours. Your home will look brighter,
sunnier and more cheerful. Turn on all lights and replace dim bulbs with
higher wattage ones in darker rooms. Day or night, turn on all the lamps
in your home, to include overhead spots and ceiling fixtures.Prepare a
list of utility costs (electric, gas, water and sewer charges) for the
past 12 months for us to add to your fact sheet.
► Place fresh
flowers-in abundance- on the kitchen table and in the living room. Bowls
of citrus are both colorful and aromatic.
Delicately scented candles, burned a few minutes before a showing, also
help to create a soothing atmosphere.
► Kitchen and
bathrooms should be immaculate. Open windows, if weather permits, to
keep your home well-aired. Pets
should be confined or restricted from view. Keep your pet’s food area
clean and eliminate pet odors. A small bowl of
white vinegar in each room is a quick and inexpensive way to help
eliminate smoke and pet odors.
► Keep your yard and
shrubbery neatly trimmed and well-watered. Sweep
your front porch and sidewalk before each showing. Fresh paint on
the front door and sparkling fixtures say “Welcome” to buyers.
► Replace any items,
such as unique chandeliers, not included in the sale, or tag them with
“to be replaced with ” or “ not included “ signs.
All jewelry, small valuables, etc. should be stored in a safety
deposit box or in a locked closet.
► If at all possible,
try to step outside while your home is being shown, and take your dog
with you. Let your sales
professional know where you can be reached at all times.
If you plan to be out of town, please leave a number where you
can be reached.
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