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Don’t underestimate the importance of a fresh coat of paint when it comes to preparing to sell your home. Apart from changing the look of your space, it also adds to the value of your house. Painting can make your home feel brand new and attract the attention of serious buyers. While painting can be an overwhelming and messy task, don't allow this to deter you. With the following tips, you can complete the task in less time and cleanup will be a snap.
Use heavy foil
Line your paint tray with heavy-duty aluminum foil. When changing colors or you’re done for the day, pour the excess back into the can, and toss the foil.
Cut edging tape
If you’re using painters or masking tape to protect your trim, run a utility knife down the edge of the tape before attempting to remove it. This will make it easier to remove and create a cleaner edge.
Fabric softener
Try cleaning up your brushes with warm water and fabric softener if you are using water-based paint. The fabric softener dissolves paint easily because it is a surfactant and leaves the bristles soft and pliable. Rinse the brush thoroughly and allow it to air dry.
Drop cloths
If you’re using drop cloths, consider using cloths that are long and narrow. This configuration is easier to move around your room and generally won’t involve a lot of folding or gathering. You’ll be less likely to trip or get your ladder caught in extra material.
Use cardboard
An excellent alternative to drop fabric or plastic is cardboard. Flattened cartons prevent paint from dripping on your floors and protect them from damage by ladders and scaffolding. Another advantage of using dismantled boxes is that their smooth edges stick closer to baseboards protecting floors from drips, spatter, and overspray.
Painting your home will add value and freshness to your home. Consult with your real estate agent about current color trends.
About the Author
Marsha Charles
Consistent top listing and selling agent receiving Chairman's Club award for superior sales achievement almost every year while associated with Preferred Properties, Inc. Consistently receive the International Presidents Premier award for sales volume since joining Coldwell Banker Realty and ranked in the top 1% of agents in Connecticut and Westchester County. In 2021 I received the International Society of Excellence award for sales volume in excess of $100,000,000. I have been named a Top Five Sales Agent for customer satisfaction since 2010 (longer than any other agent in Connecticut) and listed in Connecticut Magazine. Named one of the Top Agents in Connecticut by Real Trends since 2018.
I work with sellers and buyers and also have a strong understanding to needs of those who are relocating . Background and experience in advertising, public relations and photography offer creative and innovative marketing plans for sellers.
Realtor designations include: Graduate Real Estate Institute, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Marketing Specialist, and Pricing Strategy Advisor. Served as President of New Canaan Board of Realtors (two terms), Director (three terms) and currently serve on Professional Standards Committee. Named Realtor of the year by the New Canaan Board of Realtors in 1994and again in 2022.
Married and mother of other of four children who attended and graduated from the New Canaan School System, Member of New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich and Statewide MLS systems. Areas covered include New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Rowayton, Norwalk, Wilton and all of lower Fairfield County.
