Getting Ready for Market

OUTSIDE

KITCHEN

	– Mow the lawn, and trim trees and shrubs away from the house.
	– Remove dead plants, flowers & shrubs.
	– Put away tools, garbage cans, hoses, toys & building materials.
	– Remove window screens while selling your home & keep windows clean.
	– Check for broken roof shingles and clean out gutters.
	– Seal or resurface driveway.
	– Clear patios and decks of planters, flower pots, charcoal & barbecues.
	– Dress up front yard shrubs & lamp posts with fresh mulch.
	– Repaint or refinish trim around windows and doors.

	– Clean the stove, oven, range hood and countertops.
	– Repair drippy faucets and squeaks or binds in cabinet drawers. Make sure cabinet hardware is also cleaned.
	– Discard old food & leftovers from refrigerator.
	– Remove messages, pictures and magnets from refrigerator.
	– Clear small appliances, dish drainer and cookware from countertop.
	– Wipe down cabinets and clear out items under the sink.
	Other: ___________________________
	Other: ___________________________

FOYER

FAMILY ROOM

	– Clean all light fixtures and replace with bright bulbs in the light fixtures.
	-Turn on all the lights before a buyer arrives to show there is nothing to hide.
	– Roll up and remove small rugs.
	– Fill the house with a fresh scent. Heat vanilla on the stove or bake a batch of cookies.
	– Spotlessly clean woodwork & carpeting.
	– Clear window ledges of all objects to give a nice glimpse inside & out.
	– Repaint walls in a neutral color such as antique white.
	Other: ______________________________

	– Clean fireplace and remove any items in front of it.
	– Replace carpet if it has a loud color.
	– Remove magazines, books, video games, toys and other clutter.
	– Create an easy going, relaxed atmosphere.
	– Dust and simplify shelves; remove family photos.
	Other: _______________________________
	Other: _______________________________
	Other: _______________________________

LIVINGROOM

BATHROOMS

	– Discard worn furniture & move extras to a storage area.
	– Visit a model home to get decorating ideas.
	– Clear away all magazines, books & other objects from furniture.
	– Take down picture that hide walls. Patch nail holes & paint.
	– Add lamps & lighting in dark area.
	– Open the curtains.
	– Set out some fresh flowers.
	_______________________________

	– Remove any unnecessary items from the vanity, tub, etc.
	– The fixtures, tile & shower curtain should be immaculate.
	– Caulk & grout tile. Bleach discolored grout.
	– Remove any wall paper that is not "conservative."
	– Decorate with towels.
	– Check bath vents are working properly.
	-Make sure all fixtures work properly and fix leaks.
	_______________________________

MASTER BEDROOM

MISCELLANEOUS

	-This is 2nd most important-to-be appealing room.
	– Define areas by furniture arrangement. Keep it simple.
	– Be sure clothes are hung up.
	– Store off-season clothing elsewhere.
	– Clean out closets enough for buyers to get a good idea of storage size.
	– Make sure nothing is left under beds; add bed skirts for cleaner look.
	Other: ______________________________

	– Clean or replace HVAC filter. Clean air returns.
	– Test all smoke detectors.
	– Clean chimney, fireplace or woodstove.
	– Remove any wall paper that is not "conservative."
	– Decorate with towels.
	– Make sure all windows, doors and cabinets open easily without squeaks; replace rusty hinges.
	– Check ventilation in attic, basement and crawlspace; update if necessary.
	Other: _______________________________

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