A joint study by University of Alabama and University of Texas at Arlington suggests that “homes with high curb appeal tend to sell at an average of 7% more than similar houses with an uninviting exterior” (Realtor Magazine online). If you’re thinking about selling soon, keep reading… there are some great tips below. We’ve collected ideas from several online sources to help you get the best possible price when it comes time to sell. If you’re unsure of where to start or which items should be the highest priority, especially in Chattanooga’s current housing market, give us a call or text us. We would be glad to help you get started and may even be able to save you time and money by shortening your to-do list a little.

Download our free Home Seller Checklist here.

Please keep in mind that the items below are just suggested to-dos. They are by no means mandatory for getting your home ready to list. In fact, considering Chattanooga’s current housing market, buyers are typically more willing to make a reasonable offer on your home while overlooking outdated cosmetic issues, fixtures, and home decor.

• Powerwash the driveway, sidewalks, and patio
• Replant garden, borders, window boxes, pots
• Repaint or stain the front door
• Mow lawn, shape and trim bushes and overgrowth around house and power lines
• Hang attractive house numbers that are legible from the road
• Buy a new doormat to welcome home buyers
• Clean or replace worn out mailbox and attach attractive house numbers
• Mulch around landscaping and rake leaves
• Paint and repair chipped paint and caulking on interior and exterior
• Scrub around fireplaces to clean soot stains and replace old fireplace screen
• Make sure corners and entryways are free from cobwebs and insects
• Clean inside and outside windows and window sills
• Clean and open blinds and curtains for showings
• Clean and touch up paint on baseboards, doors, and anywhere dust tends to collect
• Change interior and exterior light bulbs and turn lights on for showings
• Remove and donate clutter before showings
• Depersonalize by removing photos and personal items before showings
• Walk through and remove any sources of foul odors
• Fix loose or outdated handles, knobs, fixtures
• Take your pets to a daycare or pet sitter during showings
• Wash blankets, change litter box, use a scentless odor spray, sweep pet hair before showings
• Point couches and chairs toward each other to open up the space
• Set the scene by displaying board game on the coee table
• Set the dining room table as if you were going to host a fancy dinner party
• Arrange pillows, chairs, artwork, accessories in odd numbers
• Purchase new towels to freshen up the bathroom and kitchen
• Add a splash of color to brighten up areas like reading or breakfast nook
• Open up tight or boring spaces with mirros which will reflect light
• Replace outdated bathroom vanity with pedestal sink or new cabinet/fixtures
• Remove fridge magnets and other clutter
• Organize and declutter under sink cabinets and shoot for half-empty closets
• Empty all trash cans and keep them out of sight
• Set out fresh flowers in the kitchen and dining room
• Put jewelry and valuables in a safe spot
• Stage patio areas with accent pillows, potted plants, outdoor decor