The Ultimate Staging Checklist - Preparing to List

A deep clean both inside and outside of your home are recommended. A decluttered, neutral, and streamlined look helps buyers to imagine what life would be like in your home. The action points below will help them be able to do that.

EXTERIOR

• If needed, pressure wash the home’s exterior

• Have the gutters cleaned and ensure gutter extensions are in good working order

• Make sure the yard is nicely trimmed and keep the lawn free of clutter

• Weed and freshly mulch garden beds 

• Clean interior and exterior windows

• Make sure your fence is secure and in good condition

• Trim dead tree branches and consider trimming tree branches that hang over the house

• Add seasonal plants by the front door and/or front porch

• Purchase a fresh welcome mat

• Replace or remove any damaged window screens

INTERIOR

• Declutter home and organize & clean closets - this will give you a head start on packing

• Clean window blinds, lift blinds and clean window sills

• Clean baseboards and door panels

• Make sure you have replaced your air return filters and vent covers are clean and/or replaced if rusty

• Clean light switch covers

• Clean carpets, rugs

• Clean lighting fixtures

• Minimize and clean pet areas in the home

• Be sure that all light bulbs are in working order and have the same color in each room

freshen the paint & fixtures

• A new coat of exterior paint helps a home's curb appeal. It isn’t a low-budget item, but if you can swing it...DO IT 

• If you can’t paint the entire home, paint the trim. This is a relatively simple thing to do and it helps give a home that wow factor

• Update exterior light fixtures, this can quickly give a home an updated look

• Put a fresh coat of paint on the front door