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There are a number of improvements that are relatively easy and inexpensive to make and can substantially improve a home's appearance.
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Trim trees and shrubs which touch or overhang the house. |
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Apply new caulking and weatherstripping, as needed, around windows and doors. |
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Clean gutters of debris and leaves; repair or replace cracked or broken gutters, downspouts and extensions to ensure proper drainage. |
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Replace bathroom caulk or grouting where necessary to prevent seepage and improve appearance. |
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Ventilate closed basements and crawl spaces or install a dehumidifier to prevent excessive moisture build-up. |
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Regrade soil around the foundation, as needed, to keep water away from the house. |
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Replace dirty filters (every six months) in the heating and air conditioning systems. |
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Have the heating and air conditioning cleaned, and install chimney hoods or caps as needed. |
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Fixing even minor items can go a long way toward improving that important first impression of your home.
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Repair leaky faucets. |
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Tighten loose doorknobs. |
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Replace damaged screens. |
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Replace broken panes of glass/sash cords. |
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Replace burned-out light bulbs. |
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Secure loose railings. |
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Repair and coat driveway. |
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Repair peeling wallpaper. |
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Clean and/or paint walls as necessary. |
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Pay attention to items relating to protecting the home and its occupants from danger.
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Install smoke detectors on each level. |
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Have an electrician install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets in “wet” areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. |
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Store flammable products away from the furnace, water heater and fireplaces. |
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An attractive, clean and neat appearance will enhance your home's appeal.
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Keep the lawn mowed and the house picked up. |
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Clean exterior walls, stairs and trim; repaint if necessary. |
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Open window shades and curtains to create a bright, inviting atmosphere. |
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Keep the kitchen and bathrooms clean, since buyers scrutinize these areas. |
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It's a good idea to assemble in advance various house records that can be used to answer questions from buyers and home inspectors.
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Appliance receipts, service records and warranties. |
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Information on the age of major components such as the furnace, air conditioner, water heater and roof. |
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Major component warranties (e.g. roof, furnace etc.) |
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Gas and electric bills from the previous 12 months. |
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Remove excess clutter from basement, attic and garage areas to give buyers and home inspectors access to the heating system, electrical equipment and structure. |
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847.446.9600
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