The home selling process differs from state to state, but there are some important steps that most home sellers should take before listing a house with an agent or selling it for sale by owner. Every bit of prep work you do helps you get the most return from your investment. Make all needed repairs unless you want the house to be regarded as a fixer-upper. I'm not referring to cosmetic updates--just items in need of repair. Anything that's obviously broken gives potential buyers a reason to offer you a lower price, especially if it's one of several repair hot spots that worry buyers the most.

• Curb Appeal Brings Them In! Your lawn should be trimmed and edged. Shrubs should be shaped.

• Inspect the outside ground. Remove any building materials, scrap wood, discarded household items, etc. from the property. Store garbage cans in the garage.

• The Front Door Greets the Prospect! It should be clean and have a welcoming decoration.

• Let the Sun Shine In! Open daperies and curtains to make your home cheerful.

• Fix that Faucet! Dripping water discolors sinks and suggest faulty plumbing.

• Repairs Can Make a Big Difference! Loose knobs, sticking doors & windows and other minor flaws detract from value. Have them fixed.

• From Top to Bottom! Display the full value of your attic and basement. Remove all unnecessary articles.

• Estimate Your Costs to Sell

• Advertising costs, signs, other fees if you plan to sell by owner

• Attorney, closing agent and other professional fees

If your house is currently listed with another broker this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing.

1| 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8