It simply makes sense to clean up both the interior and exterior of your home before listing it for sale. But that doesn’t mean you have to undertake major home renovation projects on order to sell your home. With a little effort you can increase the perceived value of your home by a great margin.

Here are some simple things to keep in mind that you can do to increase the perceived value of your home and make the perfect first impression.

Exterior of Home

• Keep lawns cut
• Trim hedges and bushes
• Weed and edge gardens
• Clear driveway and clean stains
• Clean out garage
• Power wash home exterior
• Touch up paint
• Plant colorful flowers

At The Front Door

• Clean porch and foyer
• Ensure door bell works
• Repair any broken screens
• Fresh paint or varnish front door
• Repair any damages to the door and/or locks

Setting the Right Mood

• Make sure your home smells fresh and clean
• Turn on lights
• Turn on air conditioner/heater
• Open the drapes
• Light the fireplace
• Maximize Open Space
• Clear halls and stairs of clutter
• Clear kitchen counter and stove top
• Clear closets of unnecessary items
• Remove empty boxes and storage
• 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
• Clean around heating vents
• Clean washer and dryer
• Clean carpets, drapes and window blinds
• Eliminate pet odors and stains