by Lynn Nadler

Last week-end I had out-of-town buyers who were looking for a home in Columbus.  Unfortunately, it was cold and we had quite a bit of snow on the ground.  I showed them 22 homes in 3 days and, after braving the weather, I have a couple of very important suggestions for home sellers.

PLEASE, if at all possible shovel your driveway and sidewalk.  Not only as a courtesy to the potential buyer, but as a courtesy to your own home.  By the time we would drive into the driveway without getting stuck, tramp through 4 inches of snow and then slide up to the front door, our feet were wet, we were cold and the first impression was not so great.  When we got into the home, our feet covered with snow, we were always concerned about tracking the snow through the house.  We removed our shoes, but still left puddles at the front door, so there was a concern about the sellers floors and carpet.

PLEASE keep the heat set at 65 degrees at least. We found that once we were in the houses, many of them had the heat set so low that it was very uncomfortable to be there.  I realize that if the seller is not living there, he or she is trying to save money, but a cold home is not only uncomfortable for the potential buyer, it's also dangerous to the water pipes. I acctualy showed one where the pipes in the basement had burst and we had to turn off the water to the whole house--what a mess!

As a seller, always remember that you want to make a great first impression, so a clean driveway and comfortable home should be at the top of your list!