Effective property presentation is critical. Potential buyers respond favorably to homes that are bright, clean, and appear spacious. Note that after accepting an offer, you may have as little as 30 days to vacate and clean the property; therefore, immediate and thorough decluttering is strongly advised.
CORE PREPARATION PRINCIPLES
These three principles are fundamental to preparing your home for the market:
1. Thorough Decluttering
Remove all non-essential items from every area of the home. The objective is a minimalist, “model home” appearance, not a “lived-in” feel that can distract buyers. This includes items that will not be part of the sale.
2. Effective Depersonalization
Enable buyers to envision themselves and their belongings in the home by removing highly personal items. Pack away personal photographs, collections, trophies, diplomas, and personalized certificates.
3. Comprehensive Deep Cleaning
Ensure every part of the home, from ceiling fans to baseboards, is impeccably clean. A thoroughly cleaned home indicates good maintenance and care to potential buyers.
EXTERIOR PREPARATION
ENHANCING CURB APPEAL
The initial view of your property significantly influences a buyer’s perception.
- Landscaping: Maintain neat, clean, and inviting landscaping. Trim bushes and trees, ensuring they do not obstruct windows or doors. Remove all weeds from garden beds and pathways. Apply fresh, dark mulch to garden beds for a clean, polished look.
- Surface Cleaning: Power wash porches, driveways, sidewalks, and patios to remove dirt and grime.
- Windows: Clean all windows meticulously, inside and out, to maximize natural light.
- Front Door: Ensure the front door is clean; a fresh coat of paint or stain is recommended if it appears worn.
- Patio/Deck Furniture: Clean patio furniture and cushions thoroughly. Replace or store items that are old or in poor condition.
- Storage of Exterior Items: Neatly store or remove garden hoses and all gardening tools and supplies.
- Trash Receptacles: Store trash and recycling bins out of sight, such as in the garage or concealed behind a fence.
- Driveway and Street: For photographs and all showings, remove all vehicles (cars, boats, trailers) from the driveway and the street in front of the home.
INTERIOR PREPARATION
ROOM BY ROOM
Potential buyers will inspect all areas of the home. Each space must be meticulously prepared.
(Applicable to All Rooms)
- Surface Clarity: All horizontal surfaces should be cleared. This includes kitchen and bathroom countertops, dresser tops, nightstands, coffee tables, end tables, and window sills. Ensure the top and front of the refrigerator are completely clear.
- Cable Management: Hide, bundle, or remove all visible power cords, charging cables, and wires.
- Trash Can Concealment: All trash cans (kitchen, bathrooms, offices, bedrooms) should be concealed in a closet, pantry, or garage.
- Flooring: Hardwood floors should be clean and polished. Carpets are to be shampooed or professionally cleaned, then vacuumed thoroughly. Remove most scatter rugs and area rugs to display the primary flooring and enhance the perception of space.
- Furniture Arrangement: Remove excess, oversized, or unnecessary furniture to maximize the perception of space and ensure easy navigation. Arrange remaining furniture to optimize flow and highlight room features.
2. Kitchen
- Countertops: Kitchen countertops must be entirely clear. This includes removing toasters, coffee makers, knife blocks, and all other small appliances and accessories.
- Sink Area: The sink should be empty, with no dishes in the basin or on a drying rack. Faucets and basin should be polished. Remove and store all sponges, scrub brushes, and soap.
- Refrigerator Exterior: The front and sides of the refrigerator should be completely clear of magnets, photos, calendars, and papers.
3. Bathrooms
- Countertops: Bathroom countertops should be clear of all personal items. Store toiletries, makeup, and other personal effects out of sight.
- Shower and Tub: Remove all shampoo, soap, razors, and other items from showers and tubs.
- Toilets: Toilet seats and lids must be closed.
- Towels: Remove all used towels, washcloths, and bathmats. Hang only a set of fresh, neatly folded, clean towels that coordinate with the bathroom decor.
4. Bedrooms
- Beds: Make all beds neatly with fresh, attractive linens. Pillows should be fluffed.
- Nightstands & Dressers: Clear nightstands and dressers of all items except perhaps a lamp and one small decorative piece.
- Clothing & Toys: Put away all loose clothing, footwear, and children’s toys.
- Under-Bed Area: Ensure no items are visible under any beds.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Pets
Address pet presence carefully to avoid deterring potential buyers. The best practice is to remove pets from the property during showings. If this is not feasible, ensure they are securely and quietly crated. Remove pet beds, food and water bowls, litter boxes, toys, leashes, and crates from all viewable areas. The objective is for the home to present with no obvious signs of pets.
Vacant Homes
A vacant home offers a “blank canvas” but also means that imperfections are more noticeable. Condition is paramount. Pay meticulous attention to the cleanliness and condition of flooring, baseboards, walls, light fixtures, and blinds. An impeccably clean and well-maintained vacant home conveys strong potential to buyers.
FINAL PREP FOR THE PHOTOGRAPHY APPOINTMENT
The property should be fully prepared before the photographer’s scheduled arrival.
- Lighting Protocol: Confirm all light fixtures are clean, with working, matching bulbs. The professional photographer will provide definitive instructions on whether interior lights should be ON or OFF for optimal results.
- Natural Light: Unless directed otherwise, ensure all drapes are pulled back, and all blinds and shutters are fully open to admit maximum natural light.
- Televisions: Generally, TVs should be turned OFF for photographs unless specifically requested.
- Entryway Clearance: The front entrance and foyer should be clear of shoes, coats, bags, mail, and keys.
- Punctuality and Access: Photographers operate on strict schedules. Ensure the home is 100% photo-ready at the scheduled appointment time. It is most efficient for the photographer if the home is unoccupied during the shoot.