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Look for any cracks in exterior plaster, and make sure they are fixed and repainted to match exterior paint.
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Touch-up the paint on the exterior of the home if necessary. In some cases, it pays to repaint the entire exterior if it hasn't received a coat of paint in years. Hardwood trim on the exterior of the home can make or break its appearance. Make sure it looks clean.
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Clean up any litter in the yard or walkways, removing any leaves or debris.
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Clean oil stains from your driveway and garage. This is best achieved by using poultice with Portland cement. Scrub with a detergent and rinse. Clean rust stains beneath rails with the commercial product, Zud.
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Check the locks of your home at the entry, back entry, and garage. Locks can give a first impression of a home that needs maintenance, and they are the first thing a buyer sees. A small dab of graphite will make them work like new.
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Organize the garage. Get rid of clutter by either putting it in boxes, or pack ahead of time and rent a storage locker for your garage belongings. Make sure you wash your car.
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Clean the gutters and extend downspouts to prevent flooding or basement water seepage.
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Sweep and hose off the walkway and driveways. Pressure-wash if necessary.
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Rake leaves, trim shrubbery and trees, cut the lawn, and plant some new, fresh flowers. Put down fresh mulch or peat moss around shrubs and flower beds.
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Wash or thoroughly clean wood, aluminum, and vinyl-sided homes. You can hire a contractor to pressure-wash an entire house for about $200. Pressure-washing can remove dirt, grime, peeling paint, and mildew.
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Make sure your doorbell is functional.
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Paint your front door and mailbox. Polish your door and entry hardware.
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Get into your car and drive away from your home. Drive towards your home the way a potential buyer would. Notice your first impression of your home. Is the landscaping well groomed? How about the driveway and curb? Can you easily see the architecture of the home, or is it blocked by trees and bushes? Notice your roof. Is it in good condition? Make a list of items that need attention.
