Home Detailing - Part 3

• Remove excess furniture.
• Closet is 50% rule. No clutter in the floor.
• New bedspread. Open curtains.
• No clutter on top of furniture.
• Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures.
• Nightstand should be clutter free.
• Don't forget to dust!

• Remove clutter and cobwebs.
• Sweep off.
• If there is a ceiling fan, clean it.
• Make sure door operates properly.
• Clean hand prints of off doors and near door knobs.
• Make sure all railings are secure.
• Touch up paint as necessary.
• Roll up hoses.
• Clean the pool.

• Consider higher wattage light bulbs for the increased light.
• Oil all squeaky doors.
• Tighten the door knobs and make sure door stops are in place.
• Replace burned out bulbs, cracked fixtures.
• Open curtains and drapes.
• Clean the mini-blinds!
• For showings, turn on all of the lights before you leave.
• Clean and repair windows.
• Make sure all of the wall switches do something. Lights, etc.
• Clean the carpets!

• You must remove all pet odor. Consider Simple Solution, available at pet stores.
• Avoid potpourri. Many people are allergic to the perfumes.
• Avoid too many of the "plug in" type air fresheners.  Some scents are offensive and many buyers wonder what you are trying to disguise.
• Refrain from smoking in the house while it is for sale.  Many buyers will not even look at a home if smells of smoke.

FINAL NOTES

• If there are items in your home that are attached but do not convey, remove them immediately and replace with  something else.
• Small repair items look much bigger to the buyer and often result in a discounted offer.  You have to disclose things that do not work or are in need of repair.  Perhaps it is easier to repair or replace the items of question.
• All of this detail work may seem a little overwhelming. Actually it is very rewarding to see your home transform into a showcase!  You'll be moving soon anyway, you might as well get a head start on cleaning out closets and clothes.  Go ahead and box up the items you don't need and take them to a homeless shelter, haven, or a church.  It will be good for them and good for you, too!