Before your next open house, take the time to improve the appearance of the home’s interior and exterior to ensure the house is ready for potential buyers and looking its best.

1) Highlight each room’s best feature

Is the kitchen dated and shabby? Look around and maybe there’s a cute window over the sink, a built-in pantry or a butcher block kitchen island. Be sure the charming window is sparkling clean and remove curtains or blinds, leave the pantry door open so the buyer can see the ample storage and put a basket of fruit on the island to attract attention.

If the living room has a fireplace, rearrange furnishings so that the view to the fireplace is not blocked and the buyers can focus on the fireplace when they enter the room.

Go through the home and select the best feature in each room. Highlight that feature by adding colorful accessories and by removing clutter.

2) Trash, store or fix any eyesores

A broken toilet seat, a stove with missing knobs, stained carpeting or hideous drapes can leave a lasting impression on a potential buyer. Have the client replace and fix any obvious eyesores, and your listing will show better.

3) Add light

Dark spaces look gloomy and dirty. Open draperies, turn on lights and make the home look as bright as possible.

4) Bring in nature

Plants and flowers add life and beauty to any home. Put a pot of geraniums on the front porch or a plant on the coffee table and you’ve added charm for almost no money.

5) Show potential

If the kitchen island can be used as a place to eat, set it up with colorful placemats and dishes. If the small bedroom can be used as an office, stage it with a chair and desk to encourage buyers to see the potential in the home.

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