Chris Gmyr

Sure, a damp cloth run over the tops of tables and counters is enough for regular company, only a prospective homebuyer is NOT your typical company.  On some level, everyone knows cleanliness matters.  But too many houses aren’t showroom-ready when realtors bring in potential buyers.  Don’t be lazy about cleanliness.

Here are a few areas to pay particular attention to:

Bathrooms (shower/tub grout, drains, toilet, sink)
Bedrooms (mini-blinds, floorboards, under the bed, drapes)
Pet Areas (shed fur, scratched furniture/walls, pet urine smell)
Kitchen (refrigerator inside and out, stove inside and out, dishwasher, sink)

If you can’t get something sparkly new, consider replacing it.  $8 for a new shower curtain and $40 for new drapes is an investment in selling your home.  Now is not the time to pinch pennies.  If your home has an odor problem (a common issue with children and/or pets), strongly consider getting the carpets professionally cleaned even if it means shelling out $200.  If any walls are dingy or pockmarked with nail holes, it might make sense to invest in some new, bright paint.  Spring for some range covers or fresh hand towels, if needed.

An absolute must—clean fingerprints off all windows and glass.  Freshly cleaned windows let in more light, and most people simply prefer a bright home.  Sure, glass gets dirty at an astronomically fast rate, so this might require a weekly scrub-down.  Just do it.  And while you’re at it, rub some wood oil into your floorboards, furniture, and woodwork until it shines, shines, shines.

An hour before a scheduled homebuyer is visiting, run a Swiffer across all inside floors, and take a broom to the walkway, porch, deck, and garage.  First impressions really do matter.  Don’t let someone leave your home thinking about how much cleaning THEY’RE going to need to do if they make an offer on your house.  Make them walk away saying, “Now that’s a clean, lovely home.”