Four Small But Important Ways to Prepare Before Your House Is Shown

When you're attempting to sell your home and receive notification that an interested buyer wishes to schedule a showing, you'll want to devote adequate time to ensuring that your residence looks the best it possibly can. This means you'll be scrubbing and polishing the house from top to bottom, but in your quest to complete the larger cleaning projects, you shouldn't overlook the smaller things that can make a difference in the home's appearance. Here are four small but important things to do before the showing. 

Lubricate Any Creaky Doors

While it's true that a creaky door won't cause a prospective buyer to lose interest in your house, small aggravations of this nature can send a subtle sign that your house hasn't been properly cared for. Use a can of lubricant to treat the hinges of exterior and interior doors, as well as cupboard doors, throughout your home. Remember to carry a rag with you to wipe up any excess lubricant.

Put Away Things on Tables and Counters

The average home often has a variety of things on its tables and counters, from mail that needs to be sorted to coffee mugs and more. These items aren't hugely problematic, but they can be a little distracting. Plus, things on the counters in the kitchen can make the available counter space seem smaller. Take a minute to put these items in your drawers or cupboards so that they're out of sight.

Relocate Clothing and Footwear

Many homes have a lot of clothing and footwear that may be in the way for people attending a showing. This is especially true during the winter, when coats, snow pants, gloves, hats, and boots will be stored around the front and back doors. Take the time to stash these items tidily in the closet so that they're not in the way. Too much apparel hanging on the hooks in the front entrance can make the space feel cluttered.

Ensure That the Temperature Is Right

You may be in such a hurry to clean your home that you don't give consideration to the temperature. Before you leave, ensure that the interior temperature is appropriate. This means that the air conditioner should be running during the summer and that the heat should be on during the winter. You don't want prospective buyers noticing the temperature either way and getting distracted from evaluating your home. For example, if a buyer is chilly during the winter, he or she may hurry through the showing.

For more tips on getting your home ready for a showing, talk to a real estate agent like Donna Lasater Real Estate & Property Management.