The Ultimate Guide To Preparing Your House For Showings

You never know when a prospect will ask to see your home. With our ultimate guide, you'll always be prepared to show your best!

When a buyer comes to see your home, first impressions are everything. It starts right at the curb and there are no second chances. It's absolutely essential that your home is ready to welcome them and start winning them over.

Prepare Ahead

Assign jobs ahead of time so the family can take action when a showing is scheduled
Make sure the yard is manicured and the drive and walkways are swept clean
Store garden tools, bicycles, kid's toys and athletic equipment out of sight
Keep cars in the garage, not in the driveway or in front of the house

Brighten Things Up

Open all the window shades, shutters and draperies to let in maximum light
Use the appropriate wattage in lighting - not too dark and not too bright
Install mirrors to magnify the feeling of light and openness
Turn on lights throughout the house including the closets, basement and garage
Install track lights in dark areas to provide indirect lighting
For evening showings, turn on the front porch light and other outdoor lighting

Keep It Spotless

Neatness makes a room easier to view. Make sure all the rooms are tidy
Store toys out of the main living areas, keep them in the childrens rooms
In the bathrooms, clean the sinks, floors and baths. Put out fresh towels
In the kitchen, put away all dishes and clean the countertops and sinks

Set The Mood

Start a fire in the fireplace in the fall or winter months
Light a candle or two to create a peaceful atmosphere
Keep fresh flowers and rich green plants throughout the house

Clear The Air

Avoid spray fragrances or room deodorizers that may be offensive to some buyers
Light a scented candle to create a pleasant fragrance
Grind fresh lemon in the garbage disposal or boil cinnamon sticks to add a fresh scent
Open the windows to air out the odor of strong-smelling foods, smoke or pets

Control The Sound

Play beautiful, soft, romantic, instrumental background music
Everybody loves the sound of water. Turn on the garden fountains
Turn off the television and radio because they are a distraction to buyers
Run your washer, dryer and dishwasher at times when your home is not being shown
Keep the windows closed if there is road or other exterior noise at your house

More Good Ideas

Leave the house during showings and let your agent do their job
Keep pets out of the way or better yet - take them for a walk during the showing
Put all your jewelry and valuables out of sight
Store prescription drugs in a private place

For a complete list of the things to do to prepare your home for showings, please contact our team.