What’s In It For You

Standard Services

A house that "sparkles" on the surface will sell faster than its shabby neighbor, even though both are structurally well-maintained. From experience, REALTORS also know that a "well-polished" house appeals to more buyers and will sell faster and for a higher price. Additionally, buyers feel more comfortable purchasing a well-cared for home because if what they can see is maintained, what they can't see has probably also been maintained.

Insurance coverage and bonding.

Demand The Best

Making sure your home is clean is a crucial step in the marketing process. It's also a very time-consuming process - one that many people don't have the time or motivation to tackle properly. Hiring a cleaning service is almost certainly worth the cost if you don't have the time to do the work yourself. It may even make sense to arrange for regular cleanings during the selling.

Realtor Checklist

Kitchens and baths

Clean all kitchens and baths thoroughly and keep these areas spotless during the selling period.

Rugs and floors

Shampoo rugs and vacuum frequently during the selling period. Consider refinishing stained or discolored wood floors.

Windows

Wash all windows and keep these clean during the selling period. Wash all screens.

Cut down on clutter

Consider removing some furnishings and personal possessions if any rooms seem cluttered (you can rent a storage space if you need someplace to put excess items). Clean out messy closets. Tidy up children's rooms and play areas and try to keep these areas clean during the selling period.

Garage

Clean out the garage. Organize stored items neatly and remove clutter. Sweep the area clean.

Clean up outside

Clean out the garage and basement. Organize stored items neatly and remove clutter. Sweep both areas clean.

Check your landscaping

Make sure your yard is well tended. Keep the grass neatly mowed and edged. Check your shrubs and plantings to se if they need to be weeded or trimmed.

Maintain a fresh, pleasant scent in the home

Purchase some potpourri or scented candles to use when the home is shown. Consider keeping firewood on hand during the winter if your home has a fireplace.