| Start from the outside in. Landscaping
is critical, curb appeal is a must when you consider
your house will be compared to houses that have
recently sold, and are for sale in your area and in
the price range you want to be in. It is not necessary
to perform an outdoor makeover on your home but be
sure that all trees and shrubs are neatly trimmed and
the lawn has been cut and edged along sidewalks and
flower beds. Fresh mulch or wood chips in the flower
beds and around trees are a nice accent but are not as
important if everything is neatly trimmed.
Solar path and garden lighting is becoming more
affordable every day and makes for a quick and easy
outdoor upgrade. Make sure your yard furniture is also
clean and neatly arranged to help create an inviting
setting.
Moving inside make certain that your entryway is as
warm and inviting as possible. Open all blinds,
curtains and shades and turn on interior lights even
if it is a daytime appraisal, which most are. You do
not want your appraiser fumbling around for light
switches, it is best to make the walk though of the
interior swift and effortless. Leave nothing to
chance, dishwashers, pantries, and even the junk room,
hall closet and garage should be neatly organized.
The house should smell as nice as possible giving
the appraiser a positive sensory memory to take with
them. While it is not necessary to bake fresh bread it
would not hurt, nor would the aroma of a fresh pot of
coffee. A harsh nose full of an overdose of carpet
cleaner on the other hand will more than likely not
help create an inviting aroma.
It is important to remember that your appraiser
visits many homes each day and thousands per year, so
you must concentrate your efforts making sure your
home looks inviting and well cared rather than trying
to make it look like one in a million.
You are selling your house to your appraiser, and
he or she is paying for it with their reputation make
it worth that investment and you will greatly increase
your chances for a great appraisal.
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