If you want buyers to be interested in your home, it need to be in mint condition. A good first impression can influence a buyer into making an offer; it influences a buyer emotionally and visually. A buyer begins making a decision as soon as they arrive in the driveway.

A bad first impression can immediately mean a loss of a potential buyer for your home. Don’t show your property until it’s in “show condition”. You do not want to give buyers the chance to use the negative first impression they have as means of negotiation.

Ask around for the opinions others have of your home. Real estate agents who see houses everyday can give solid advice on what needs to be done. Consider what architects or landscape designers have to say. What you need are objective opinions, and it’s sometimes hard to separate the personal and emotional ties you have for the home from the property itself.

Typically, there are some general changes that need to be done both outside and on the inside. As a seller, you should consider the following:

*Landscaping – Has the front yard been maintained? Are areas of the house visible to the street in good condition?
*Cleaning the driveway – Is your driveway cluttered with toys, tools, trash etc.? Is it in need of repair? Are there tree roots causing it to bulk?
*Painting – Does both the exterior and the interior look like they have been maintained? Is some painting chipping away from the exterior? Does the outside need pressure washing?
*Carpeting – Does the carpet have stains? Does the carpet look old and dirty? Is the color outdated? Is it torn and worn in areas?