These problems are almost guaranteed to make a potential buyer NOT buy your house.

Odors
House odors can make potential buyers leave without taking a second look. The biggest culprits are cigarette smoke, pets and mildew. The trick is to get rid of odors, not just cover them up. You want potential buyers to walk into a clean, fresh home.

Poor Lighting
Most home buyers will be turned off by dark rooms. Try these simple tips to turn up your home’s brightness factor.

• Install additional light fixtures
• Replace dim light fixtures
• Clean the windows, inside and out
• Repaint some rooms with colors that reflect light
• Remove heavy drapes to let the light through windows
• Trim tree branches shadowing your house

Pet Problems
Not everyone will love your beloved dog or cat. Animals can frighten and irritate people, as well as make some potential buyers worry about the cleanliness of your home. It’s a good idea to remove your pets during showings.

The Hovering Seller
Home buyers usually feel awkward about opening closet doors, inspecting cupboards and lingering for a good look at a house if the seller is there. Don’t hang around when your realtor brings a potential seller to your home.

Lack of Curb Appeal
A buyer’s first impression of your home is what invites her inside for a closer look - or convinces her to drive to the next listing. If you want to sell your home for top dollar, grab the buyer's interest from the curb. Mow the lawn, pull weeds, scrub windows, clean gutters and remove clutter from outside your home.

James Paradise, Broker-Realtor: 509-525-1828 or paradise@bmi.net

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