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Home Preparation Guide

It is said that “Web appeal is the new curb appeal.” First impressions are very important and most home buyers judge whether to visit a home in person based upon their first impression of the property via photographs.

  • Thoroughly clean carpet, hard floors, countertops, and windows
  • Turn all overhead and other lights on; including bedside lamps
  • Replace all missing or burned out light bulbs using bulbs of same temperature; all LED, all CFL (compact fluorescent), or all tungsten in same room
  • All ceiling fans, TV’s, and computer screens OFF
  • Open blinds and window treatments to let in natural light
  • Remove personal photographs/replace with generic or landscape
  • Make all beds perfectly
  • Remove small rugs to reveal floors
  • Place shoes and jackets in closets

Front Exterior and Backyard

  • Remove cars from driveway
  • Manicure landscape
  • Remove hoses, trash cans and sporting equipment

Kitchen

  • Clear countertops, including knife blocks, toasters, and coffee maker; minimal decorations are ok.
  • Clear refrigerator top and clear sides of photos and magnets
  • Hide trash cans, remove dishes, sponges, and other items

Dining and Living Rooms

  • Use decorative place settings and/or one center piece; such as, flowers
  • Remove child booster seats
  • Remove stacks of magazines and mail
  • De-clutter fireplace mantel
  • Fluff and arrange furniture pillows

Bedrooms

  • Clear nightstands of personal items and charging cables
  • Remove all clutter from dresser tops
  • Remove family photos from walls
  • Clean under beds, removing items that may show in the photographs

Bathrooms

  • Clear countertops completely; including soap, toothbrushes, etc.
  • Toilet lids down
  • Close closet doors
  • Remove everything from showers and bathtubs; including shower caddies
  • Leave out only new, unused, neatly arranged towels
  • Remove floor mats

Carl Nelson Photography for Real Estate