Seller's Guide for the Atlanta Market  


Selling a home in the Atlanta market requires setting a competitve price, an aggressive marketing presence, and following a few guidelines that help make your house show above the rest.

A Beacham and Company associate can assist you in determining a competitve price in current market conditions and begin the marketing process.  Our sales associates are highly skilled professionals who will assist you throughout the marketing period, from guidance to setting the offering price, through showings and contract negotiations and on to the closing table.

Superior service and attention to detail are the reasons why our associates sell more homes in our market area than any of our competitors. Call today for a complimentary consultation.

Below are a few suggestions to prepare your home for a successful showing. It is not necessary to complete each suggested improvement. Invest only in those areas where deterioration is visible or where one of our suggestions will enhance the appearance, thereby making it more appealing.

EXTERIOR

Because most buyer opinions are formed between the car and your front door, we will begin there.


"CURB APPEAL"
  • Pick up all litter and trash.
  • Pick up all garden tools.
  • Pick up all toys.
  • Trim shrubs, hedges and trees.
  • Rake up dead leaves and pick up dead tree limbs.
  • Repaint or replace a worn mailbox.
  • Repair and/or repaint the fence.
  • Reseed worn patches in the lawn.
  • Weed and feed the lawn and garden.


TIP - Weeding the Lawn

Mow the lawn 1-2 days before applying weed killer.  Water the lawn thoroughly.  Apply lawn/weed killer.  Sprinkle the area lightly with water to hold material and prevent dust from drifting.  1-2 days after application, water lawn thoroughly.



TIP - Reseeding the Lawn

Mow the lawn 1-2 days before applying weed killer.  Water the lawn thoroughly.  Apply lawn/weed killer.  Sprinkle the area lightly with water to hold material and prevent dust from drifting.  1-2 days after application, water lawn thoroughly.



ROOF AND CHIMNEY

  • Check roof for leaks.

  • Check roof shingles for sturdiness.

  • Remove debris from gutters and downspouts.

  • Repair or repaint gutters and downspouts.

  • Check chimney flue and clean obstructions.

  • Check flashing around vents, skylights and chimney for leaks.

  • Check chimney for damaged chimney caps and loose or missing mortar.

  • Install wire screens in roof ventilation areas.



TIP - Checking for Leaks in the Roof

Inspect all of your ceilings for water marks (discolored spots).  If you find one, it means there is a leak. Thoroughly inspect the attic for water marks along ceiling joists (trusses) and look for spots in the insulation.  If you find a leak, consult a professional about repairs.



TIP - Roof Integrity

Most roofs will last anywhere from 15-20 years.  Check the roof shingles.  If they look flat and are pliable, the roof is still in good shape.  If the ends start to curl or there are areas with broken or missing shingles, you will need some repairs.  Use products available on the market or go over the affected area with a second set of shingles.  Only in an extreme case should you install a new roof ($1,500-$3,000).



HOUSE EXTERIOR

  • Remove old or dirty screens from windows.

  • Wash all windows.

  • Caulk in any cracks and holes in house siding.

  • Repair or repaint siding.

  • Repaint or touch up trim along the side of the house.

  • Check weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows.

  • Apply a fresh coat of paint to a worn doorway.

  • Repair a malfunctioning screen or storm door.

  • Wash steps and railings.

  • Replace a worn doormat.

  • Put up new, easily recognizable house numbers.

  • Spruce up the front door with potted plants.