Here you will find some helpful tips for anyone preparing to sell a home in Santa Cruz County California. Often one or two minor repairs can lead to a quicker sale and a much higher sales price!

Tips For A Successful Home Sale

Yard - Keep grass and shrubs trimmed. Consider using a fast-greening fertilizer such as ammonium sulfate for a deep green lawn.

Pets - If you have animals clean up after them daily. Secure pets when the house is being show.

Fences - Make any needed repairs. A neat, well-painted fence gives a positive impression.

Flowers - Consider seasonal flowers, especially near the front door and in any deck or patio area.

Exterior Paint - The front door should be refinished or painted if it shows excessive wear. First impressions are important. Check exterior paint. Often only the trim, or depending on sun exposure only one or two sides of the house need painting.

Interior Paint - You can accomplish a great deal by touching up paint where needed. Light colors make rooms appear fresh as well as larger.

Termite Report - Order a termite report. Knowing how much termite damage there is before hand can help greatly when negotiating the sale of your property.

Housekeeping - While your home is on the market please keep in mind that a neat and tidy appearance is essential.

Odors and aromas - If you have animals or smokers in the home please make an effort to air out the home and have the carpets cleaned.

Bathrooms - Make bathrooms sparkle. Clean stained sinks and bowls, repair any leaky faucets. Repair any damaged or discolored caulking around bathtubs and showers. Make sure all plumbing is in working order.

Shades and blinds - Replace any torn shades or broken blinds.

Drapes - If drapes need cleaning, have it done. If they are old and worn, stained or dark, consider replacing them with light colors. Mini blinds should be considered as an alternative to drapes. They are less expensive and have a clean, modern appearance.

Lighting - If any room appears dark, increase the wattage of your light bulbs before a showing. Open the blinds and drapes and turn on the lights even during the day. You want the house as light as possible. Make certain your light fixtures and windows are clean.

Closets - If closets appear crowded remove items not needed and put in boxes.

Excess furniture - Many homes appear crowded with too many pieces of large furniture. Consider putting excess furniture and other unneeded items in a storage unit.

Garage and Basement - Spruce up your work area. Consider using a commercial garage floor cleaner on excess oil and grease marks on the garage floor and driveway.

You - During showings it's often best for you not to be in the home. Buyers feel restrained with an owner present. If you must remain in the home try to stay in one area such as the garden or in the workshop, these activities create a positive image. It's best to not volunteer any information. You can politely answer questions from the buyers, buyers agent or if you choose refer them to your agent.