Preparing Your House for Showings – Cleaning your house to the nth degree is not a one-time thing; it becomes an everyday occurrence – or atleast a new ritual before every showing – until your home sells. It’s only one of several things to do beforeinviting prospective buyers into your home.
Deep Clean and Remove Clutter – Make everything sparkle, from hardwood floors and crystal-clear windowsto kitchen countertops and toilets. Don’t forget the small details like taking out the trash, dusting, and tuckingaway toiletries in the medicine cabinet. Removing clutter is an absolute necessity before showings. Fluff throwpillows, fold and store all blankets, clean and declutter all closets to show the most possible storage area to yourpotential buyers.
Remove Odors – Be smart about what you cook the night before or morning of a showing. Lingering smells fromfood can be a turn off. The same goes for air fresheners and candles.
Shoot for neutral. Remove Yourself and Your Family – You won’t physically be present for the showing, and neither shouldpersonal items. You want prospective buyers to picture themselves calling this house their own and so all familyphotos and personal items should be stored away from view.
Don’t Forget About Outside – First impressions are key and the first thing prospective buyers see when pullingup to the house. Make sure the lawn and landscaping is manicured and loose sticks are picked up. Consider adding potted flowers for an extra boost. Make sure the driveway and walking paths are clean and clear of debris.
Easy Inside Staging Tips
Brilliant Natural Light – Take off heavy drapery and put up something light and airy. This allowsnatural light in and makes room space seem larger.
Float Furniture – Float furniture away from walls, reposition it into conversational groups, and placepieces so that the traffic flow in the room is obvious. This means keeping the perimeters clear.
Light the Way – Increase the wattage in your lamps and fixtures (aim for a total of 100 watts for every50 square feet). Then install dimmers so you can vary light levels according to your mood and the time of day. This can be a do-it-yourself project.
Clean, Clear, and Paint – Remove all excess furniture and accessories. Place all personal belongingsin storage. Clean and organize closets and cupboards so they appear spacious. Kitchens and bathroomsare a big selling points; update fixtures and make areas spotless. Paint walls for a fresh appearancethroughout the house.
Create a Fantasy Space – An exercise room, meditation space, art studio, office
Liz Walker Real Estate 