6 Things to do Before You Sell Martha's Vineyard Real Estate:

1. Have a pre-sale home inspection.
   Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential real estate buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin.
2. Organize and clean.
   Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine.
3. Get replacement estimates.
   Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin.
4. Find your warranties.
   Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, range, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house.
5. Spruce up the curb appeal.
   Pretend you’re a Martha's Vineyard real estate buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments?
6. Title V Septic System Inspection.
   The majority of homes on the island have septic systems. Typically it is the Seller's responsibility to supply a Certificate of Compliance for the septic system at closing. Septic systems have strict guidelines in the state of Massachusetts called Title V. If a septic system is a failed system or needs repairs or updating, you, as the seller, may want to negotiate the selling price of your home according to the cost of repairing/replacing the system. If it becomes the responsibility of the buyer to bring the septic system up to Title V standards, it must be completed within 60 days after closing.