Getting to Market

Most people begin the task of readying their home for sale about the
same time they start thinking seriously about moving. It can take
weeks or even months to find that perfect fit and during that time
you can work to bring your current house to showcase condition.

But what if you weren't planning to move? Instead you happened to
come across that ideal house at the right price in the perfect
location. A friend knew it would be right for you. Or you've been
watching that one property and now there is a For Sale sign in the
lawn. You'd be a fool not to jump at the opportunity, even if you
weren't expecting to be in the market.

The only problem is now you've got to get your house ready to list
and sell in record time. There's no time for major updates or even
significant painting. Instead, focus on these key areas.

- Rule number one is to get rid of the clutter. Donate it, sell it or
just box it and store it. Above all you want the home to be organized
and clutter free.

- Break out the cleaning supplies. If you don't have time to paint
and make major updates, make the house as clean as possible. Even if
a home or a few rooms are outdated, a clean home will give a good
impression. Remember to make time to clean things like refrigerators,
laundry rooms, cabinets, drawers and especially bathrooms.

- If there is no time to paint a whole room, try to rid marks on
walls with a good cleaning or a light touch up with a paint brush.

- Let the light shine. A well-lit home is more appealing than a dim
and shadowy one. Clean the windows until they shine and make sure
room lighting is abundant, soft and cheery.

- Think about curb appeal. Make sure your lawn is mowed and all
landscaping is neat and tidy. Sweep walkways, decks, patios and the
like. If you need some color, add a few pots of splashy, seasonal annuals.

The days leading up to the sale are sure to be crammed full of
organizing and cleaning, but the end result is sure to be worth it.

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