As I tour numerous homes to assist the owners in preparing the house for sale, I'm always amazed at how many houses need work on the ceilings and other overhead areas.
But what is more surprising is the reaction from homeowners - "I hadn't even noticed that!" Even more perplexing is the reaction: "Yeah, we had that fixed." (Really? Because there is still a big spot on the ceiling.)
As we dwell in our own homes, we rarely look up...but that is usually one of the first areas of notice with buyers. Not surprising because evidence of damage or even potential repairs can send up a red flag! 
"In the residential real estate business, a red flag refers to a condition affecting a property that might be a material fact that needs further investigation. A material fact is something that would affect a buyer's decision to buy or the price they would be willing to pay."
National Association of REALTORS, January 2, 2009.
When looking at your house through buyers eyes, be sure that all damaged areas have been repaired completely - and that means repainting! Take a tour of the outside as well to note any soffits, fascia boards and other exterior surfaces that need attention.
Look up! You might be surprised!
