10 Cleaning Tips for Selling Your Property
Getting a house to sell these days can be an enormous undertaking. With the flood of homes on the market due to the economic downturn and the constant wave of foreclosures, competition is tough. Add to the mix the competition from the inventory of new homes and condos with upgrades and incentives that buyers never thought possible a few years ago.
Getting a house to sell these days can be an enormous undertaking. With the flood of homes on the market due to the economic downturn and the constant wave of foreclosures, competition is tough. Add to the mix the competition from the inventory of new homes and condos with upgrades and incentives that buyers never thought possible a few years ago.
So how does the average home seller compete? The key is to create a clean clutter free environment that creates an inviting lifestyle. Whether or not you home has been remodeled, the first priority in selling a home is that it's clean and streamlined. Potential buyers need help envisioning your home with their lifestyle. Having clutter, knick knacks and overly decorated rooms are an instant turn off that interfere with the basic layout of the home. Here are some helpful tips that can make a big difference without breaking the bank.
Real Estate Cleaning Tips:
- Clean the clutter. Prospective home buyers don't want to see your bills, post-it notes on counter tops or your child's latest masterpiece on the refrigerator. They want to see space. Laundry, unfinished projects and toys must be contained in an out-of-site storage place.
- Hire Professional Cleaners. Yes, we're a bit bias on this one but it really does pay off. Real estate cleaners can take care of important cleaning tasks that don't normally get done such as cleaning outside windows, pressure washing the exterior, grout cleaning, mold removal, wall washing, upholstery cleaning, deep carpet cleaning and stain removal. Professional cleaners get the house in shape with an initial cleaning that will allow you to simply maintain the day to day chores.
- Paint. Painting creates a clean look and is a relatively inexpensive way to update your home. Neutral tones are always the safest option to help a buyer feel comfortable.
- Pack Up. Since moving is your ultimate goal, start packing knick knacks, CD's, books and memorabilia early. This allows more space to be seen and shows a more generic home that could be lived in by anyone. Store the boxes in a garage or storage facility so they don't add clutter.
- Atmosphere. When possible before a buyer comes to look at your home, create an inviting atmosphere. Open some windows to let in some fresh air and light. Turn off the TVs and turn on some quiet music. Place fresh flowers in the kitchen or on the dining room table.
- Clear the counters. Try to create as much open space on the counters as possible. There should be no visible storage containers or unnecessary appliances such as coffee grinders, grills, griddles, bowls, rotisseries, etc. Give the counters a good wipe down and remove any stains.
- Closets, cupboards and cabinets. Potential home buyers want to see exactly what they might be getting. This includes the inside of closets, cabinets and cupboards to see how much space lies behind the doors. These spaces need to be cleaned up and scaled down with the amount of stuff hidden in them. The more space that is showing, the larger it will look. Pack any non-essentials away and store them in the garage or storage facility.
- Curb appeal. When selling a home it's important to remember the outside of the home is its first impression. Replace any dead plants and landscaping. Clear all weeds and fix any brickwork or drywall issues. Make sure the outside paint is current and maintained.
- Appliances. If your house or condo is on the market and the appliances are included, it's important to clean and maintain the inside as well as the outside. Clients will be looking to see exactly what they are getting and how much space is inside.
- The garage. It's easy to move your clutter from the inside of the house to the garage. However, this space needs to be seen in the best light possible too. A garage packed with boxes, bicycles, furniture, toys and memorabilia will make the space look much smaller and give the buyer the impression that there is not enough room. Consider renting a storage room for a few months while your home is on the market.
Action Cleaners is bonded and insured. Our employees are trained and certified to follow OSHA and EPA guidelines. With our high standards, training and satisfaction guarantee, it's time to put your real estate cleaning needs in the hands of the cleaning and janitorial experts. Please contact us directly at toll free 1-877-667-4725 for more information on our professional cleaning services.
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