How to Prepare Your Home for Sale

Clean the entire house and remove clutter (vacuum, mop, clean allcounter tops, and wash windows)

• Keep all lights and lamps on. Be sure to turn on under cabinet lights and other decorative lights.
• Replace all burned out light bulbs.
• Light bulbs should be the same color.
• Keep ceiling fans OFF for the duration of the photo shoot
• Televisions & computer screens should be OFF for the duration of the shoot
• Open all blinds and window coverings (unless undesirable view)
• Shutters should be open to expose the maximum amount of window but should not be drawn up completely
• If your property has views that can be seen from the interior be sure to clean all windows and remove screens if possible.
• Remove as many personal and family photographs as possible
• Remove small rugs to show fl ooring

Close garage doors

• Remove cars from driveways and front curb
• Tidy landscaping and remove clutter (cut, mow,
and rake, hide toys, etc.)
• Remove empty planters
• Remove hoses
• Place trash cans inside garage or shed

Clear counter tops of non-decorative items (home phones, baskets, papers, etc.)

• Remove all refrigerator magnets and decorations
• Hide garbage cans in pantry or closet
• Remove soaps and dishes from sink and any dish towels
draped over the sink or oven handle
• Remove distracting over-cabinet decorations
• Remove napkins, paper towels, spices, oils.

Make bed, straighten bed skirts and fl uff pillows

• Iron or press linens
• Remove all personal non-decorative items from night
stands
• Remove electronics and wires
• Remove clutter from dressers and other surfaces
• Remove family photos
• Clean under bed
• Spare rooms
• Remove names and family photos from walls
• Remove posters, logos, and stickers
• Remove any trash cans and laundry bins
• Remove or organize toys

Hide pet bowls in garage or closet

• Hide pet toys and beds in closet
• Keep pets in a hidden crate or outside
• Clean pet waste and toys out of backyard