Preparing Your Home for Sale in Piedmont, Oakland and Berkeley

Homes that show well sell for the highest price and in the quickest time. Particularly important are the condition of the front garden and walkways and especially the front door, since the first impression creates an instant and lasting image in the mind of a potential buyer. Equally important is the use of “staging” to show off the beauty, features and benefits of your home. Following the steps below will improve your success:

• Clean and polish everything. The walls, floors, hardware, appliances and hardware should smell and look fresh and clean.
• Trim, weed and freshen the garden. Mulch unsightly areas. Replace dead grass with sod. Add seasonal color in beds and planter boxes. Cut branches and shrubs away from windows and the house to improve light and street appeal.
• Paint inside and out where needed. Consider having colors chosen that will help create more dramatic spaces. The stager can help here.
• Have carpets and upholstery professionally cleaned. Have hardwood floors polished. Consider refinishing or replacing badly stained or scratched floors and carpets.
• Repair all leaks, replace all bulbs, and put new batteries in all the smoke detectors.
• Repair all sticky windows, doors and loose cabinet knobs.
• Check and repair all tile grout and caulking. Make sure that cabinets, tile and appliances are free of mildew and stains.
• Clean out all closets and storage areas. Remove clutter. Pack and remove any excess and place neatly in the garage or a storage facility.
• Haul away all trash and yard debris.
• When the home is being shown, dust and vacuum constantly. The home should be spotless when you leave in the morning, with all dishes, clothes and toys neatly stored. All beds should be made. Closet doors should be slightly open so buyers can feel free to examine the size and space available.
• Turn on lights to highlight your home’s best features and make your property look bright. Keep window coverings open unless they reveal an objectionable view.
• Consider fresh flowers during scheduled showings.
• Don’t cook food with strong odors.
• Move any litter boxes outside or to the garage. Clean up after pets daily.
• Arrange to be gone during showings. This allows potential buyers to ask any questions without embarrassment.
• Before leaving for the day, walk through the house to make sure everything is in its place.
• Price your home to sell!

Let me put my expertise in the East Bay real estate market at your service. I can help you get your Alameda County home ready for sale and welcome your questions. Phone me today at (510) 813-0321.