Preparing To Sell
Repair & Cleaning Checklist
EXTERIOR
Remove peeling and chipped paint; replace with a fresh coat.
Fix loose trim and fencing.
Clear gutters and downspouts.
Make sure there is good exterior lighting and all walkway lights and front-door lanterns work.
Clean and repair the roof as needed.
Clear garage of clutter and tidy shelves.
Inspect chimney for cracks and damage.
YARD:
Mow and trim grass; re-seed and fertilize where necessary.
Prune all overgrown trees and shrubs.
Weed flower beds. Remove or replace dead or diseased plants, shrubs and trees.
Clean grease and oil stains from driveway.
DECKS/PATIOS:
Paint or stain worn areas on wood decks.
Remove grass growing in concrete cracks; sweep off debris from shrubs and trees.
Clean all deck rails and make sure they’re secure; replace missing slats or posts.
Clean outdoor furniture.
FRONT DOOR:
Polish or replace the door hardware so it shines.
Add a fresh coat of paint to get rid of nicks.
Clean the glass on the storm door; make certain the screen is secure.
Make sure the doorbell operates properly and there are no squeaks when the door opens and closes.
WINDOWS:
Clean all windows inside and out.
If needed, add a fresh coat of paint to the window trims and sills.
Make sure all windows open and close easily.
Replace cracked windowpanes and those with broken seals.
Make sure window screens are clean and secure; replace any screens with holes or tears.
ENTRY
Clean entryway floors and area rugs.
Downsize clutter in the entry and entry closet to give the appearance of spaciousness.
Double-check entry lighting to make sure it works.
THROUGHOUT
Clean all floors, carpets, walls and trim.
Replace burned-out light bulbs.
Empty trash.
Remove family photos, valuables, and prescription drugs.
KITCHEN
Make sure countertops, grout, and sinks are clean and stain-free. Replace grout as needed.
Fix dripping faucets.
Organize pantry and cupboards so they appear clean, neat and spacious.
Make sure the refrigerator and freezer are defrosted and free of odors.
Clean the oven and cook-top thoroughly.
Set the table.
LIVING/FAMILY/DINING ROOMS
Give rooms a fresh coat of paint as needed.
Repair cracks and holes in ceiling and walls.
Make sure all wallpaper is secure.
Repaint any woodwork that is worn or chipped.
Clean or replace draperies and blinds; open them to maximize light.
Make sure draperies and blinds open and close.
Steam-clean carpets. Clean rugs and wood flooring, and remove any stains or odors.
Position the furniture to showcase the size and space of the room.
Remove and replace any attached items, such as chandeliers and draperies, that you wish to move with you.
Put away toys and hobby supplies; remove extra magazines and books from tables.
BATHROOMS
Make sure sinks, tubs, showers and countertops are clean and free of stains.
Repair any leaky faucets.
Remove grout and soap stains from tile.
Replace any missing or cracked tiles or grout.
Make sure all joints are caulked.
Make sure all fixtures including heat lamps and exhaust fans, are operating.
Install a new shower curtain and buy matching towels.
Store all supplies, such as toilet paper, shampoo bottles and cleansers, out of sight.
BEDROOMS
Repair cracks in ceiling and walls.
Apply a fresh coat of paint if necessary.
Make sure wallpaper is secure.
Clean draperies and blinds; open them to maximize light.
Put away toys, clothes, and clutter.
Neatly make up the beds.
BASEMENT/GARAGE
Check for water penetration or dampness; call for professional repairs if necessary.
Get rid of musty odors.
Clean furnace, hot water heater, and drains.
Make sure light fixtures work.
Arrange storage area in a neat and organized manner.
Make sure stairway handrail is secure.
TIDY EXTRAS…
Use air fresheners or bake treats to make the house smell good.
Plant flowers to brighten a walkway and enrich the entry.
Remove any indoor houseplants that are brown or losing their leaves.
Remove all “FIXER” cars, campers and boats from the property.
Discard the clutter of magazines on the coffee and end tables.
Tidy and declutter all closets.
Hide or get rid of worn-out throw pillows.
Store pet supplies.
At night, turn on the porch light and outdoor lighting. Buyers often drive by homes they are considering at various times of day.