General Home Preparation
- Wash all windows inside and out for maximum natural light.
- Deep-clean carpets or have them professionally treated.
- Fix minor repairs such as leaky faucets, damaged screens, loose handles, or cracked tiles.
- Clean all mirrors, glass surfaces, and shower doors.
- Touch up walls or apply a fresh coat of neutral paint if needed.
- Dust and clean light fixtures throughout the home.
- Clean all appliances thoroughly—including the interior of the oven, microwave, and refrigerator.
- Clean or repaint baseboards for a crisp, well-maintained look.
- Patch and repair holes, outdated wallpaper, and chipped paint.
- Make sure all light bulbs match and use bright white bulbs to create a clean, inviting atmosphere.
- Declutter every space—remove personal photos, memorabilia, and unnecessary items.
- Remove signs of pets (litter boxes, pet beds, food bowls) whenever possible.
- Refresh landscaping: trim bushes, weed beds, prune trees, and maintain a neat appearance.
- Pressure-wash the home’s exterior, driveway, walkways, and patio areas.
- Add fresh mulch to improve curb appeal.
- Ensure the lawn is cut weekly and well-watered.
- Avoid loud or highly personalized paint colors—aim for neutral tones.
- Use a clean, appropriately sized doormat at the front entrance.
- Perform a deep clean of the entire home before listing.
- Clear out gutters.
- Have your AC system and water heater serviced.
- Clean air vents inside the home.
- Re-caulk bathrooms if the caulk appears worn or discolored.
- Dust and clean all ceiling fans.
One-hour Showing Prep Checklist
- Make all beds and fluff pillows.
- Use a basket to quickly gather loose items and store it neatly out of sight.
- Ensure bathroom towels are clean, hanging neatly, and coordinated in color.
- Wipe down toilets and make sure lids are closed.
- Clear and wipe down countertops and sinks.
- Open all blinds for natural light and turn on every light in the home.
- Set the thermostat to a comfortable, cool temperature (especially important in Florida).
- Make sure the home smells fresh—avoid overpowering air fresheners.
- Vacuum carpeted areas; sweep tile, wood, or laminate floors.
- Clean mirrors so they sparkle.
- Sweep the front entryway and straighten the welcome mat.
While the Home is on the Market
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Keep the home consistently clean and clutter-free to make rooms feel more open.
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Consider hiring a cleaning service for weekly touch-ups while the home is active on the market.
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Keep kitchen counters, bathroom counters, and closets as open and minimal as possible.
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Maintain landscaping regularly: trim hedges, pull weeds, and prune trees.
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Keep the garage door closed to maintain curb appeal.
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Ensure the lawn is cut weekly.
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Avoid cooking foods with strong odors before showings.
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Clean litter boxes frequently and place them in the garage or a discreet area if possible.
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Make sure all light switches and outlet covers are clean and free of fingerprints.
