Property Preparation

Hey there! To make sure your house looks its absolute best for photos and open houses, use this checklist as your guide. It'll help you cover all the bases and make a great first impression. When selling your home, presenting it well is key to attracting higher offers and a quicker sale. The aim is to inspire potential buyers to envision the possibilities for the space.

General PREPARATIONS​

  • Turn on all lights and lamps, replace any burned out light bulbs
  • Close all windows and open blinds
  • Declutter countertops and shelves and remove excess furniture to create a more open living space
  • Turn off all TVs and computer screens
  • Remove personal photos
  • Remove door and bath mats that don't serve an aesthetic purpose
  • Place all shoes and jackets in closets

Exterior Areas

  • Move cars from driveways
  • Remove garbage bins
  • Do a yard clean-up by mowing the grass, trimming overgrown shrubs, and raking leaves
  • Hide or remove toys, garden tools and sports equipment
  • Sweep entryway
  • Clean pool area

Kitchen & Dining Area

  • Straighten/push in chairs
  • Clear countertops off completely
  • Hide as many small appliances as you can (toaster, kettles, coffee maker, etc.)
  • Remove fridge magnets and photos
  • Store dishes and put away drying rack
  • Hide soaps and cleaning items
  • Remove visible garbage bins
  • Add a center piece such as flowers, candles or fruits to the tables

Living & Family Room

  • Straighten and arrange furniture to open the space
  • Remove magazines and papers
  • Hide any toys, hobby items, gym equipment
  • Clear clutter from shelves and tables
  • Hide remotes
  • Hide wires and cables as much as possible

Bathrooms

  • Clear countertops completely
  • Remove toothbrushes and shavers
  • Clean all mirrors and glass
  • Hang fresh towels, nicely folded in thirds
  • Clean toilet and close lid
  • Hide toilet brush and plungers
  • Remove bath mats

Bedrooms

  • Remove any visible clothes and clutter
  • Make beds and straighten pillows
  • Put your lightest, matching bed set on
  • Remove unnecessary items from bed side table
  • Clean under bed, remove items which might show
  • Clean mirrors