7 Steps to Prepare for Showings

1.            Hire a cleaning service. A spotlessly clean home is essential; dirt will turn off a prospect faster than anything.

2.            Mow your lawn, and be sure toys and yard equipment are put away.

3.            Be sure the kitchen has been cleaned up and the trash is empty.

4.            Lock up your valuables, jewelry, and money. Although the real estate salesperson will be vigilant during the showings, it’s impossible to watch everyone all the time.

5.            Turn on all the lights. Even in the daytime, incandescent lights add sparkle. Open the blinds & curtains.

6.            Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If that’s not possible, crate them or confine them to one room (a basement or bath), and let the salesperson know where to find them.

7.            Leave. It’s awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there.