Add Housewarming Appeal

Your Home's Interior

Experience shows that creating a warm and inviting feel inside your home increases its desirability. View your home with a critical eye, then clean, complete minor repairs and add finishing touches.

Doors and Windows

Consider adding a fresh coat of paint to your front door.
Polish brass fixtures and be sure door locks work properly.
Oil hinges to both doors and windows.
Keep stairways tidy and secure handrails.
Repair or replace bent or damaged screens and window glass.
Cut back outdoor plants that restrict natural light.
Keep windows clean and tidy with draperies firmly affixed and in proper working order.

Floors and Carpets

Repair or replace missing or damaged tile, hardwood, vinyl and baseboards.
Steam-clean or shampoo carpets.
Secure loose carpeting and replace damaged areas.
Be conscious of odors caused by dampness, high-traffic areas or pets.

Closets and Storage Areas

Ample storage space increases the desirability of the home.
Keep closets tidy.
Discard any unnecessary items and consider storing those you do not use frequently.

Bedrooms and Living Areas

Keep living areas clean and inviting.
Arrange furniture to allow a spacious atmosphere.
Put away your collections (figurines, fragile items, etc.).
Store all political and religious mementos, as well as any business, sports and personal awards.
Take the extra leaf out of the dining room table and place a nice, white tablecloth on it.
Make beds, arrange couch cushions, dust shelves, vacuum carpets and touch-up walls with paint or spackling as necessary.
Wallpaper should be clean and adhere smoothly to the walls.
Finishing touches such as flowers or candles add to the home's housewarming appeal.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

Clear counters, drawers and cabinets of unnecessary items.
Remove all refrigerator magnets and items, including children's sports and school pictures.
Clean soap dishes, mirrors, faucets and appliances (inside and out).
Store cleaning supplies and hang freshly washed towels.
Be conscious of odors caused by dampness, hampers, garbage and various foods.