When I meet with prospective sellers, “How much is my house worth?” is the most common question. Second most common? “What should I do to the house to get it ready to sell?” Most home sellers understand that to get the most money possible for their home requires making the fixes that buyers expect.

If you want buyers to be interested in your home, you need to show it in its best light. A good first impression can influence a buyer both emotionally and visually, thus prompting them to make an offer. In addition, what the buyer first sees is what they think of when they consider the asking price.

A bad first impression can dissuade a potential buyer. Don’t show your property until it’s all fixed up. You do not want to give buyers the chance to use the negative first impression they have as means of negotiation.

Typically, there are some general fix-ups that need to be done both outside and on the inside. As a seller, you should consider the following:

1. Landscaping – Has the front yard been maintained? Are areas of the house visible to the street in good condition?

2. Clean the driveway – Is your driveway cluttered with toys, does it need a good pressure washing?

3. Caulk and paint any cracks around window and door frames. Caulk and paint any cracks on stucco and foundation. Not only does this help with appeal value, but it also has the practical benefit of keeping moisture out of your home.

4. Painting – Does both the exterior and the interior look like they have been well taken care of? Check for any drywall holes, cracks at joints, or stains on the ceiling.

5. Carpeting – Does the carpet have stains? Or does the carpet look old and dirty?

6. Declutter every room, don’t neglect storage areas. Clear out oversized items and then organize what’s left to give the appearance of having extra room.

7. Make sure all light bulbs are working and fixtures with multiple bulbs are of the same color temperature.

8. Change the HVAC filters and flush out the AC drain line with a shop vacuum and some vinegar.