REAL ESTATE REALITY: HOME SHOWING TIPS, MAKING A STRONG FIRST IMPRESSION

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By Maryanne Jackson, Real estate broker, CNE, CPRES.

November 3, 2019 (San Diego's East County)

Dear Maryanne,

My mother is selling her home soon. Are there any important steps she should know about when people come to look at her property?

Is it acceptable for her and her cats to be there?

Lorie B., Spring Valley

Dear Lorie,

It is not advisable for your mother to be present during the showings. Try to leave the home during showings and let the agents show your home to potential buyers. The potential buyer may feel uncomfortable or pressured, and hurry through the house if too many people are present during their showing. Keeping pets securely out of the way is best, many people are allergic or frightened of animals.

 Since buyers will be entering from the front door, give special care to the front entrance area. Touch up paint or clean the front door. Fix any loose doorknobs, or missing hardware.

 Open the blinds and drapes to allow the natural light to flow in, clean the windows and knock down the spider webs.

Take extra care that the trash has been taken out and there are no unpleasant smells lingering. Boil vanilla or cloves in a teapot on the stove prior to showings to assure a pleasant and neutral environment.

Clean the house, give extra attention to the bathrooms and kitchen. Make it sparkle and shine.

Concentrate on minor repairs getting completed, organizing the closets and donating unwanted and unused clothing, clutter and shoes. Less is best when moving. Show the buyers you’re ready to move on.

Keep personal photos and Mentos in the home very minimal, buyers may find it hard to visualize their own things in the home if your home is too personalized. Keep in mind the importance of a first impression, a negative first impression will surely kill the likeliness of striking a deal.

Questions answered on a first come first serve basis, send to westcoastproperties@yahoo.com

Or call 858-740-7858

Maryanne Jackson

Real estate broker CA. DRE #01784021


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