First Impressions Count. You Never Get a Second Chance to Make a First Impression. First Impressions are Lasting Impressions. As tired and banal as these clichés may sound; don't forget that they have become clichés because they are true. The decision to buy a house is not solely based upon rational factors such as price, location and accessibility to services. It is also an emotional choice. It is a search for a home, a place in which one will find comfort, security and happiness, a place one would want to settle down and live in. Here is a list of suggestions for creating a favourable first impression: "Love at first sight" •   plant flowers, weed and edge gardens •   mow lawn and trim hedges and shrubs •   clean driveway and sidewalks of dirt, leaves or snow •   water the lawn extensively, well in advance of selling •   remove old lawn ornaments, toys and play sets •   clean and repair rain gutters and siding •   touch up exterior paint •   clean out garage •   pick up any litter "Cleanliness is a virtue" •   make mirrors glitter and appliances sparkle •   wash and polish all floors •   clean and freshen bathrooms •   clean/shampoo all carpets •   clean all windows, walls, doors and trim "This place looks neat and tidy" •   clear all countertops •   unclutter all heavy traffic areas •   store surplus furniture to reduce feeling crowded •   put seasonal clothing into storage •   clear halls and stairs of clutter •   make all closets neat & tidy (and only half-full, even if this means moving items to another storage area) "This place looks neat and tidy" •   clear all countertops •   unclutter all heavy traffic areas •   store surplus furniture to reduce feeling crowded •   put seasonal clothing into storage •   clear halls and stairs of clutter •   make all closets neat & tidy (and only half-full, even if this means moving items to another storage area) "It certainly is well maintained" •   touch up interior paint and paper •   repair cracked plaster •   tighten door knobs and cupboard latches •   oil any squeaky doors •   repair leaky plumbing (taps, shower heads and toilets) •   repair seals/caulking around bathtub and sinks •   replace burnt-out light bulbs/install brighter bulbs •   clean furnace and humidifier •   repair any other minor flaws The "Presentation" •   turn on all lights •   open all drapes in daytime •   play quiet background music •   turn on air-conditioning or light fireplace •   keep pets outside during showings (or, better yet, at a friend's) •   have as few people in the house as possible. If you can, be absent during any showings; as potential buyers often feel awkward and rush through if they think they are inconveniencing the owner. ©Copyright 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 WebsiteUpgrades.ca. All Rights Reserved.

Information contained herein has been researched and prepared as accurately as possible. Statistics and information are subject to change. Copyright © 2007 Christian Vermast, Paul Maranger and Fran Bennett