Wash windows inside and out. Polish all mirrors. Sparkle is free and sparkle sells homes - Kitchens and Bathrooms are at the top of that Sparkle list.

Odors are a complete no-no. Make sure there are no smoke, wet dog, litter box smells or strong candle scents. If that happens, you have likely lost them as soon as they come in the door.

Check the curb appeal. If your front door is not inviting it is hard to get that buyer to come inside. Make sure your lawn is mowed, some pretty pots of flowers (yellow is a very inviting color), weed free gardens next to the entrance, and a freshly cleaned/painted door makes for a lasting first impression.

Make minor repairs. Cracked floor tiles, holes in the walls, leaky faucets. Make sure your carpeting is clean and without stains. Ensure all doors are working without squeaks, and all your light bulbs are working.

Let in the light. Remove heavy draperies, go for some light and bright window coverings, roll up the blinds, and remove anything that interferes with the natural light. You want all your rooms to be bright and spacious and natural light makes that happen.

And last but not least-makes sure you have decluttered - remove items that will distract from your home. You are going to move, so store away those favorite family photos, the children's art work, off season clothing, extra linens etc. (you do want to show the size of the closets not how much they will hold), and in your kitchen only the necessary dishes and pots and pans will impress the buyer with how much space you have for storage.

With all your efforts in sprucing up your home and the expertise of your Realtor® you can make this Spring the time to make your moving plans become reality.

By: Linda A. Schofield, REALTOR®
www.century21.ca/linda.schofield