NORTHBROOK, Ill. (June 8, 2009) - A home buyer's first impression is based on what they can see, but they'll want to know what's behind the drywall before they put down real money. The simple solution is to keep a file of important materials documenting regular expenses, updates, maintenance and renovations you've invested before your home goes on the market.

"Being able to provide a buyer with your history of improvements, warranties and utility bills shows that your home has been well-maintained," said Fran Broude, president and COO of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. "Plus, this paper trail works to a seller's advantage when paying capital gains taxes because a portion of the money invested can be deducted after the sale."

Here are a few examples of what to file away: 

• Capital improvements.  A capital improvement is defined as money you spend on your home that increases its value.  For example, upgrading your kitchen or remodeling a bathroom increases the value of your home while buying a new area rug doesn't.  Keep all your receipts and warranties to show proof of these investments. 

• Warranties.  File away warranties from major purchases or upgrades such as hot water heaters and air conditioners.  It's helpful to keep them organized by the date they expire.  Not only is it a good idea to keep these documents current when selling, but they'll come in handy in the event of a fire, flood or other emergency for insurance purposes.

• Utility Bills.  Buyers are factoring monthly utility bills into their budget prior to purchasing.  Providing them with a year's worth of bills will help them manage their expenses.  Many townships even require sellers to provide an estimate on utility costs.

 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, a leading residential real estate brokerage company serving Chicagoland, Northwest Indiana, Southeast Wisconsin and Southwest Michigan, operates 58 offices with more than 3,800 sales associates. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is part of NRT LLC, the nation's largest residential real estate brokerage company. NRT, a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, operates Realogy's company-owned real estate brokerage offices. For more information, please visit www.coldwellbankeronline.com.