OUTSIDE:
That little shed in the back yard has to be just about falling down on itself before I tear it out. I like to tell the buyers that everyone needs a place to put the lawnmower and the garden tools, since they have bigger projects that will require garage space.

Come with me outside for a moment, please. Look at the yard. Does it look like is has been lovingly mowed and trimmed? Are the bushes cut back so that the house can stand out? Are the lower branches trimmed off of the trees do that the canopy is lifted enough to let the house show forth from the street? Like grandma said; “You only get one chance to make a good first impression”. That first impression flavors the whole experience of looking at the house for the buyers. Make it a good first impression. Make it look like the quality is there for them, and the work will speak for itself as they look the property over. Clean houses always sell faster, that’s a proven fact

Clean the flowerbeds, add some colorful flowering plants. Remember that this is Houston, and that the plants will need water in the summer. Cut yourself a little deal with the neighbor kid to water them during the week for you. A couple of dollars will usually do the trick. Consider some chip mulch. It makes the flowerbeds look better and it makes it easier to pull the weeds when you come by. Remember, this is a condition that has to be maintained. The house will not keep the shine for long when left to its own devices. The house doesn’t have devices, it has needs. Take care of those needs and you will keep the house in a good and marketable condition that attracts buyers.


Kevin Smith
Forward Assist Inspections
(713)858-1330
Texas Real Estate License #3234