SALE MAXIMIZER CHECKLIST
CLEAN AND DE-CLUTTER n Consider hiring a professional cleaning service once every few weeks while the house is on the market . n Clean all curtains and blinds , purchase new ones if current treatments are damaged or dated . n Dry clean your drapes . n Open shades and curtains so the home is well lit during the showing . n Clean windowsills . n Keep screens clean and vacuumed . n Doors should be oiled and squeak-free . n Ensure all doors , cabinets , and drawers can open completely without blockage . n Get rid of pet and / or food odors . n Keep baseboards clean and dusted . n Polish all interior woodwork . n Keep stairways and corridors clear . n Mop and sweep all floors . n Organize closets and cabinets , packing away items that are not essential to your everyday life . n Keep bookshelves and entertainment units neatly organized . n Dust shelves and furniture . n Stow away newspapers , magazines , books , games , toys , and videos . n Vacuum upholstered furniture , wipe down leather or vinyl . n Sweep fireplaces . n Wipe down ceiling fan blades . n Make beds . n Water houseplants . n Clear clutter blocking access to the furnace , electrical box , and laundry room . n Remove unnecessary articles which have accumulated in basements , utility rooms , & storage areas . n Clean the garage-remove oil stains from the floors , straighten tools and other equipment . n If needed , remove clutter by renting an off-site storage space . n Store or sell extra furniture to make the home feel larger . n Have a garage sale before the home is listed . n Exterminate any insect problems .
KITCHEN AND BATH n Appliances should be cleaned inside and out . n If appliances are included in the sale of your home , make sure they are operating and have proper documentation such as warranties and repair information . n Replace any appliances that are dated or not functioning . n Remove appliances from kitchen counters to give a look of spaciousness . n Colorful curtains , in harmony with counter tops and floors , add warmth to kitchens . n Clean the inside of all kitchen and bathroom cabinets and neatly organize items on shelves . n Stow away kitchen sponges and dish towels . n Open a window or run a fan to remove cooking odors . n Stow away laundry . n Empty trash cans , recycling bins , and ashtrays . n Keep shower curtains fresh and free from mildew .
22 | THE SELLER ’ S EDGE | A GUIDE TO SELLING YOUR HOME