First Impressions count with buyers. A small investment in time and money will give your home an edge over other listings in the area when the time comes to show it to a prospective buyer.

Here are some suggestions that will help you get top market value.

1. General maintenance

  • Oil squeaky doors
  • Tighten doorknobs
  • Replace burned out lights
  • Clean and repair windows
  • Touch up chipped paint
  • Repair cracked plaster
  • Repair leaking taps and toilets
  • High pressure clean of driveway, garage

2. Street appeal

  • Cut lawns and trim shrubs
  • Weed and edge gardens
  • Pick up any rubbish
  • Clear walkway and driveway for leaves
  • Repair gutters and eaves
  • Touch up exterior paint

3. The spacious look

  • Clear stairs and halls
  • Store excess furniture
  • Clear bench tops and stove
  • Make cupboards neat and tidy

4. Spic and span

  • Shampoo carpets
  • Clean washer, dryer and tubs
  • Clean fireplace
  • Clean fridge and stove
  • Clean and freshen bathroom

5. Buying atmosphere

  • Be absent during showings
  • Turn on all lights
  • Light fireplace/ air conditioner
  • Open drapes in the day time
  • Play quiet background music
  • Keep pets secure outside

6. First impressions

  • Clean and tidy entrance
  • Functional doorbell
  • Polish door hardware
  • No pets inside
  • No smoking