REMOVE THE CLUTTER

Use this as an opportunity to get a jump start on packing and preparing to move. Clear off counters and pack unnecessary decorative items. Put extra furniture in storage, and remove out-of-season items. Pack up a lot of the family photos, trophies and other items that make people picture YOU in the home, instead of THEM in the home. On that note, replace the giant family portrait with a mirror. Don’t forget to clean out the garage, too.

LET IT SHINE

Cleaning windows and screens will help bring more light into your home. Replace burnt bulbs, and consider higher wattage in low-light areas. Clean the walls or brush on a fresh coat of bright, neutral paint. Replace outdated or dingy curtains with new ones and show off your view.

A deep clean before listing your home will make upkeep easier. Consider hiring a cleaning service to help. Keep an empty laundry basket handy for those last minute showings– just a quick trip through the house to pick up stray items for the basket (to be tossed in the car with you or in the garage) can make a big difference.

MAXIMIZE COMFORT

Make sure that the temperature in the house is comfortable. (68-70°)

PERFORM A SNIFF TEST

Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate odors. Open the windows to air out the house. Consider potpourri or scented candles and diffusers… we recommend a clean linen scent (nothing super flowery or overpowering). For quick fixes in the kitchen, cotton balls soaked in vanilla extract or orange juice can instantly make the fridge a nicer-smelling place. Boil lemon juice in your microwave, then add it to your dishwasher to eliminate odors. You can also run lemon rinds through the garbage disposal for a similar effect.

TAKE CARE OF MINOR REPAIRS

Sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they’ll give buyers the impression that the house isn’t well-maintained.

TIDY UP OUTDOORS

Cut the grass, rake the leaves, add new mulch, trim the bushes, edge the walkways, and clean the gutters. A pot of bright flowers near the entryway adds great curb appeal.

You want to create a great first impression the moment a buyer walks into the house. Have all blinds and curtains open to allow as much light in as possible.  Turn on all lights in the house and consider having easy-listening music playing softly in the background (think Michael Buble Radio).

MAKE THE BATH LUXURIOUS

Make sure your personal toiletry items are out of sight, along with old towels and toothbrushes. Add a new shower curtain and fancy guest soaps.

SEND THE PETS TO THE NEIGHBORS

If that’s not possible, crate or confine them to one room and let the realtor know.

HEAD OUT

It can be awkward for everyone if you’re home at the time of a showing.