It’s important to depersonalize as much as possible. Photos, souvenirs, collectibles or anything that will fit in the palm of your hand should be the first things you put in storage or box up to help your home’s marketability. Here are some thoughts to get you started:
General Tips
- Add fresh paint in light/neutral colors
- Deep clean carpets
- Vacuum blinds & wash curtains
- Dust all surfaces & ceiling fans
- Wax/Refinish hardwood floors
- Shine/Polish/Dust any brass, silver, or crystal
- Wash all windows & window sills
- Clean out & organize closets (De-clutter!)
- Remove extra furniture & worn rugs
- Stage tables, desks, & dressers
- Put out potpourri or scented oils
- Pick up papers, toys, trash, etc.
- Keep all walkways and stairways clear
- Secure jewelry, cash & other valuables
- Replace/Repair floor coverings
- Repair loose knobs & cracked molding
- Repair squeaky/sticky doors & drawers
- Clean the fireplace
- Check/Repair screen doors
The Garage, Attic & Basement
- Organize & de-clutter all areas
- Increase floor space as much as possible
- Tidy storage & work areas
- Hang up items & stage areas
- Sell, give away, or throw out unwanted items
- Make inspection access easy
- Clean any oily cement floors
- Clean/Paint any concrete floors
- Provide strong overhead lighting
- Make energy-saving insulation apparent
- Clean water heater & drain sediment
- Change furnace filter
- Check/Repair air vents to working order
The Kitchen and Bathrooms
- Clean appliances on the inside & outside
- Verify appliances are in good working order
- Deep clean floors & baseboards
- Organize all counter space (De-clutter!)
- Organize inside of all cabinets (De-clutter!)
- Put all food & small appliances away
- Put toiletries away
- Remove all rust & mildew
- Clean stained sinks and shower
- Deep clean tile, fixtures, & shower door
- Repair leaky traps, toilets & faucets
- Replace loose caulking & grout
- Check/Replace lighting to be bright but soft
