by Bethany Leino

Created on: November 06, 2007

The time has come to move on. Perhaps you need more space for a growing family, a smaller quieter house in the country. Maybe a place closer to work, or one further from the in-laws. Whatever the reason, it is time to sell your old house. So how do you ensure that when the appraiser comes you hear that magic number? There are several things you can do, ranging from the simple and cost effective to the more extravagant. Remember that although you may have to put money in the return you will get is worth it. Be safe and do your research, if you spend your money wisely, your appraisal will benefit.

curb appeal- The outside of your home is the first thing the buyer sees. The outside should look inviting, the grass should be green, not dead. Don't leave lawn mowers or other tools lying about, keep plants trimmed and happy. Landscaping is nice, gardens, ponds and more, assuming they are well maintained. Also make sure the outside of the house itself looks nice. If the paint or siding is dull, outdated or beat up, consider replacing it.

Clean your home- Vacuum, clean the floors, walls, kitchen bathroom etc. One of the biggest things is to manage clutter. Clutter makes your house appear smaller than it is, and thus unappealing to buyers. Even though your clutter will (hopefully) be moving with you, if you have clutter the house may seem dirty when it isn't really the house's fault. Do not leave random things laying around! A clutter free home will appear larger and more inviting. The more space your home appears to have, the more money you will get for it.

Update your home- This is where you may want to consider spending some money. Updated houses attract buyers, and up your sale price. The two biggest rooms that should be renovated are the bathroom and the kitchen. In the kitchen consider replacing cabinetry, seeing as the cabinetry takes up so much of the wall space, it greatly affects the style of the kitchen. Even if the rest of the kitchen is up to date, if the cabinets are old, it will be hard to tell. Keep in mind remodels in the kitchen should not go too far, or you won't get a return, do some research and be aware of how much is cost effective, and how much is going over the top. Crystal light fixtures are nice, but will you see a return? Buy new cabinets and counter tops add value. In the bathroom, try to make the space look as large as possible, and have as much storage as possible. Double sinks are very popular, if you have the space. In any room you should

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