House Showing Checklist
How to remember it all.
Fully preparing your home for sale can make a considerable difference in the time it takes to sell it. You can help eliminate buyer objections before they arise by making necessary repairs and improvements, some of which are suggested below.
Outdoors
__ Spruce up gardens and lawn; trim shrubbery and replace dead plants.
__ Yard and patio should be neat; outdoor furniture should be clean and in good shape.
__ Clean or paint your front door - remember first impressions last longest!
__ Manicure your front yard, driveway, and entry - you can’t sell what you can’t see.
Exterior
__ Check that door numbers, mailbox, and exterior lighting are all in good repair.
__ Touch up with fresh paint as needed.
__ Inspect chimney for cracks or earthquake damage.
__ Repair loose trim, drainpipes, and fencing.
__ Clean stains; clean window screens.
Garage
__ Remove clutter; tidy up shelves.
__ Wash the floor so it looks clean and spacious.
Living Areas
__ Apply fresh paint as needed…brighten your interiors with neutral-toned paint.
__ Clean draperies and carpets.
__ Replace burned-out light bulbs.
__ Clean the fireplace, remove smoke stains from the wall and mantle.
Kitchen
__ Sinks, appliances, and countertops should sparkle without any clutter.
__ Wax the floor.
__ Clean oven, range, and other appliances.
__ Clean tile and grout; replace if necessary.
Bathrooms
__ Clean mirrors, glass, chrome, and porcelain surfaces.
__ Replace shower curtain if necessary.
__ Fix any faucet drips or leaks.
__ Clean tile, grout and caulking; replace if necessary.
Closets
__ Doors and drawers should open and close easily.
__ Remove clutter; tidy up shelves and racks.
__ Shoes and clothes should be neatly arranged.
Overall
__ Check the basics around the house. It takes just a minute to check all doors, windows, and cabinets to make sure they don’t stick, squeak, or are too loose.
__ Clean your furnace & water heater, so buyers know they are looking at a house that has been well maintained.
