This is the big moment! Your Affinity Realty agent has just called to make an appointment to show your home to a prospective buyer. Now, here are some top home showing tips that will really impress the buyer and increase your odds of getting an offer.

First

 

impressions

 

• Assign jobs ahead of time so the family can take action when a showing is scheduled.
• Make sure the yard is manicured and the drive and walkways are swept clean.
• Store garden tools, bicycles, kid's toys and athletic equipment out of sight.
• Keep cars in the garage, not in the driveway or in front of the house.

Lighting

 

• Open all the window shades, shutters and draperies to let in maximum light.
• Use the appropriate wattage in lighting - not dark and not too bright.
• Install mirrors to magnify the feeling of light and openness.
• Turn on lights throughout the house including the closets, basement and garage.
• Install track lights in dark areas to provide indirect lighting.
• For evening showings, turn on the front porch light and other outdoor lighting.

Housekeeping

 

• Everything in your home should be spotless.
• Neatness makes a room easier to view. So, make sure all the rooms are tidy.
• Store toys out of the main living areas - in the children's rooms.
• In the bathrooms, clean the sinks, floors and baths. Put out fresh towels.
• In the kitchen, put away all dishes and clean the countertops and sinks.

Mood

 

• Start a fire in the fireplace in the fall or winter months.
• Light a candle or two to create a peaceful atmosphere.
• Keep fresh flowers and rich green plants throughout the house

Smell

 

• Avoid spray fragrances or room deodorizers which may be offensive to some buyers.
• Light a scented candle to create a pleasant fragrance.
• Grind fresh lemon in the garbage disposal or boil cinnamon sticks to add a fresh scent.
• Open the windows to air out the odor of strong-smelling foods, smoke or pets.

Sound

 

• Play beautiful, soft, romantic, instrumental background music.
• Everybody loves the sound of water. Turn on the garden fountains.
• Turn off the television and radio because they are a distraction to buyers.
• Run your washer, dryer and dishwasher at times when your home is not being shown.
• Keep the windows closed if there is road or other exterior noise at your house.

General

 

• Leave the house during showings and let your agent do their job.
• Keep pets out of the way or better yet - take them for a walk during the showing.
• Put all your jewelry and valuables out of sight.
• Store prescription drugs in a private place.
• Be sure the property brochures are in a conspicuous place for buyers to see.
• Leave neighborhood information and HOA newsletters near the property brochures.
• Don't discuss any negative features of your home with the prospective buyers.