5 upgrades and 3 tips for a good sale price

Sellers are always asking what they should do to get their property ready for sale. Here's a good list of ideas for less than $5000 that can improve your bottom line: 5 upgrades for under $5000.

My advice for sellers is it keep it simple and manageable. Starting with the basics will get you most of the way there. Clean, remove clutter, remove personalized touches and let prospective buyers envision themselves living in your property. Here's a quick check list of things to do so your home will look good this spring.

1. Give everything a spring cleaning

Go through the entire property with a vaccuum, dust rag, squeegee, whatever it takes to scrub the dust and dirt away, whatever you may have missed in your regular cleanings. Get out the ladder for those hard to reach areas and remove cobwebs, especially around light fixtures and ceiling fans.

2. Get rid of clutter

Remove unsightly furniture and get rid of things that you won't be taking with you to your new place. Donate, sell on craigslist, or take to the dump large items that will prevent a buyer from getting a good comfortable look at your property.

3. Remove personalizations

Now's a good time to take down family photos, vanity plates and shrines to your favorite sports teams. Also swap out custom switchplates and light fixtures that you'll be taking with you so you don't forget later on.