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Checklist: Prepare Your Home for Market

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Selling your home? Be sure to spruce it up. Houses that are clean, uncluttered and in good repair sell faster.

Inspect your house a few weeks prior to putting it on the market. Note things that need cleaning and repair. Real estate agents interested in listing your home often provide "staging" ideas. They know what matters to buyers and can be objective about your home's flaws. Be sure to focus on your bathroom(s) and kitchen, because buyers will.

Prior to showing your house:

  • De-clutter shelves, countertops and closets. Consider storing seldom-used items.
  • Store excess furniture and items that show wear.
  • Rearrange remaining furniture attractively.
  • Wash or paint dirty or chipped walls.
  • Clean blinds, curtains and carpets.
  • Fix leaky faucets and broken appliances.
  • Get rid of junk in your basement and garage.
  • Consider having a yard sale.

    While your house is on the market:

  • Tidy up, vacuum and dust daily, and do laundry before it piles up.
  • Keep a list of things to do while prospective buyers view your house.
  • Cut or buy fresh flowers every few days.
  • Make your home cozier by baking cookies or a pie when you expect prospective buyers.
  • Consider hiring a cleaning service, especially if you have children.

    After your house sells:

  • Keep everything clean and in good working order.
  • Make repairs you agreed to in the sales contract.

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