Linda Marx Realty

Tips From Linda

How does your house RATE?

Answer these questions with a yes or no and write the answers down so you can keep score:

1) Have you painted your house lately - exterior within the last 5-7 years; interior in the last 5 years?

2) Are the grounds well maintained - the lawn mowed, the shrubs trimmed, and free from debris or garbage?

3) Is your house well lit - have all blown bulbs been replaced, are the shades allowing light to come in?

4) Are all doorknobs tight, wires covered, closets and doors intact correctly?

5) Are the attic, basement, stairs, and garage free from large furniture, clothes, and excessive amounts of stuff?

6) Are the faucets free of leaks?

7) Has your carpeting been professionally cleaned recently?

8) Are all rooms accessible?

9) Is your house free from pet feces and odor?

10) Do you keep your home at a comfortable temperature?

* If you answered no five or more times, please re-evaluate your home and read our Helpful Hints.

* If you answered no between five and three times, you might want to consider making some changes.

* If you answered no three or less times, consider your house SOLD!

Helpful Hints

Now that your home is for sale, we suggest that you read these helpful hints in order that we may sell your home fast and at a high price. They will make the selling of your home a more pleasant experience for all of us.

Make good first impressions. The grounds should be properly maintained summer or winter. Have the lawn mowed and raked, shrubs trimmed, driveway and sidewalks swept or shoveled clean and all debris removed from property.

Arrange shades or drapes to give a maximum amount of light in dark rooms. Replace all burned out light bulbs and repair faulty switches. Light colors add cheerfulness to dark rooms, especially the kitchen area.

Badly cracked plaster, loose doorknobs, crooked light fixtures are among the small items that can be easily repaired. Small things sometimes hinder a sale more then large repairs.

Display your storage and utility space by removing all unnecessary accumulations in attic, stairways, basement and garage. They will appear much larger then they actually are.

Correct faulty plumbing. Leaky faucets can discolor porcelain and call attention to plumbing defects.

Minor redecorating is a good idea if needed, such as painting, rug shampooing, etc. it will create a much more appealing appearance.

Keep radios and televisions off or turned down during the showing to eliminate any possible distraction of the prospect.

If you have any pets, it is recommended they be kept out of the way or out of the house, if possible. Some people are uneasy around animals and they may detract from the prospect's attention.

Your home should be at a comfortable temperature year round. This should be accomplished through air conditioning, heating, or any other alternative measures necessary.

Apologies should never be made for any adverse appearance of your home. It only emphasizes the defects.

Buyers ask a great many questions of our representatives when being shown through a home and most prefer to do this in privacy. The inspection should proceed without your immediate presence. The buyer usually feels more relaxed. If you insist on being present, please don't discuss terms, price, etc. we will handle these details.

It is important to furnish us with accurate figures on taxes and utilities and inform us of all recent major improvements such as a new roof, driveway, etc.

Remember, if a reasonable offer is presented, it is wise to negotiate immediately, it may never be repeated.

Always be prepared to show your property. If you delay a prospect, it may lose you the sale. Your agent will always arrange appointments with you in advance.

Finally, may we remind you, all our staff and years of experience are available to furnish you expert advice on any problem or questions.