Get Cleaned Up
Make Your Home Spotless And Remove Clutter
These areas of your home should get more attention until your property is sold. Buyers want to envision themselves in your home… by giving your home a thorough cleaning and removing clutter, buyers will get a better impression. Also, some buyers will judge how well a property has been kept by its cleanliness. A dirty oven or tile may suggest to a buyer that maintenance items have been deferred or ignored.
The previous section dealt with minor repairs. These are maintenance items that may require attention. While you are doing this, be on the lookout for non-functional items and repair or replace them as needed.
Clean-Up
- Replace the filters in the air handler units
- Replace all light bulbs with new ones (do not exceed the fixture’s maximum rating)
- Clean all light fixtures inside and out
- Dust ceiling fans
- Wash windows, inside and out
- Clean draperies and blinds
- Clean flooring and carpets
- Wash the front door, hardware, and trim
- Clean tubs, ceramic tile grout, and plumbing fixtures
- Clean kitchen appliances thoroughly. Expect that they will be closely examined.
De-Clutter
You’re moving anyway, right? Put some items in a storage locker for a month or two… the minor cost can make a difference to your buyers.
- Remove excess and non-essential furniture to storage. Rooms should feel spacious, and easy to move around in.
- Take everything off the kitchen counter and the bathroom counters.
- Put seldom-used pots, pans, cookware and small appliances in a box and in storage. The same goes for bath cabinet items.
- Get anything that says “work” out of sight. Lawnmowers, yard equipment, shovels, and hoses will remind buyers of chores. But go ahead and highlight the fun stuff… bikes, kayaks, as long as there’s room.
- Clean out closets; put excess clothing in storage or donate it. A full closet will only make buyers wonder where they will put all their stuff.