Here are some quick and easy tips you can use to make your home more marketable. Buyers spend a majority of their time touring the inside of a home. Similar homes are often compared to each other based on condition. Ignoring a few of these recommendations will likely have a negative impact on selling price, time on market, or both.
Check underside of roof for leaks, stains or dampness
Look around chimney for condensation or signs of water
Clean and clear ventilation openings if necessary
Clean out stored junk
Walls and Ceilings
Check condition of paint and wallpaper
Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster or wallboard
Windows and Doors
Check for smooth operation
Replace broken or cracked panes
Repair glazing
Check condition of weather stripping and caulking
Examine paint
Test doorbell or chimes
Test security system
Wash windows and woodwork, if necessary
Floors
Inspect for creaking boards, loose or missing tiles, worn areas
Check baseboards and moldings
Test the staircases for loose handrails, posts or treads
Bathrooms
Check tile joints, grouting and caulking
Remove mildew
Repair leaking faucets and shower heads
Check the condition of painted or papered walls
Test operation of toilet
Kitchen
Wash all appliances
Clean ventilator or exhaust fan
Remove accumulation of grease or dust from tiles, walls and floors
Electrical System
Check exposed wiring and outlets for signs of wear or damage
Repair broken switches and outlets Label each circuit or fuse
Plumbing System
Check water pressure when taps in bathroom(s) and kitchen are turned on
Look for leaks at faucets and sink traps
Clear slow-running or clogged drains
Bleed air off radiators if needed, and check for leaking valves
Heating and Cooling Systems
Change or clean furnace and air-conditioning filters
Have equipment serviced, if needed
Clear and clean area around heating and cooling equipment
Walls and Ceilings