When you introduce your home to the market, you want to present it in its very best light. This can be achieved by going through your house, room by room, looking at it as if it ISN’T yours! If you were considering buying this place, what would you look at? What would concern you? What are the best features of the place?
Here’s a checklist to consider as you prepare each area of your home for sale.
INSIDE
- Add a fresh coat of neutral paint
- Clean floors— shampoo rugs, clean hardwoods, wash tile, etc.
- Wash windows, vacuum blinds, wipe down sills
- Organize closets
- Remove extra furniture
- Purge the clutter! No piles on counters, stairs, etc.
- Repair minor problems like leaky faucets, loose door knobs, etc.
- Make sure your jewelry, cash, valuables are secure
- Dust ceiling fans
OUTSIDE
- Mow lawn; trim shrubs
- Edge, weed, mulch gardens
- Sweep walkways/driveway
- Remove moss/mildew as needed
- Keep patio and pool areas organized, with furniture in good repair
- Repair broken windows and shutters
- Touch up exterior paint and gutters
- Paint your front door and mailbox
- Add a new welcome mat
KITCHEN/DINING
- Keep a table set, if possible
- Make sure appliances are working and spotless inside and out
- Clean out under your sink
- Remove countertop appliances
- Organize and de-clutter cabinets
BATHROOMS
- Remove rust and mildew
- Replace calking or grout as needed
BEDROOMS
- Make beds before showings
- Keep closets neat
GARAGE/BASEMENT/ATTIC
- Get rid of unnecessary items
- Clean oil spots from floors; paint floors/walls
- Provide good lighting
- Tidy work areas
- Maximize floor space by hanging tools, using shelving
- Make inspection access easy