A meticulous deep clean is essential for real estate staging. A clean home signals care and quality to potential buyers, allowing them to better visualize themselves in the space. Use this checklist as a guide to prepare the property.
Kitchen
A spotless kitchen is a major selling point.
Task | Detail |
|---|---|
Appliances | Deep clean the interior and exterior of the oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. |
Cabinets and Drawers | Wipe down all cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Ensure all hardware is polished. |
Counters and Backsplash | Scrub all countertops, paying attention to grout lines or seams. |
Sink and Faucet | Polish the sink and faucet until they shine. Remove all soap residue. |
Floor | Scrub or mop the floor, reaching into all corners. |
Ventilation | Clean the range hood and filters to remove grease build-up. |
Bathrooms must be immaculate to convey a sense of freshness and hygiene.
- Tubs and Showers: Scrub to remove all soap scum, mineral deposits, and mildew. Check grout.
- Toilets: Sanitize and scrub inside and out.
- Vanity and Mirror: Wipe down the vanity and polish the mirror for a streak-free shine.
- Floor: Scrub the tile floor and baseboards.
- Ventilation: Clean the exhaust fan cover.
Focus on details that are often overlooked.
Floors and Walls- Carpets: Professionally steam-clean all carpets and area rugs.
- Hard Surfaces: Sweep, vacuum, and mop all hardwood, tile, and laminate floors.
- Walls: Wipe down or spot-clean scuff marks on walls.
- Light Fixtures: Dust and clean all light fixtures, ceiling fans, and sconces.
- Doors and Trim: Wipe down all door frames, doors, and window trim/sills.
- Vents and Registers: Remove and clean all air vents and registers.
- Blinds and Curtains: Dust or wash all window treatments.
The first impression starts outside.
- Windows: Clean all interior and exterior window glass for maximum light.
- Siding and Gutters: Power wash the exterior siding and clean out gutters.
- Walkways: Sweep or pressure wash all walkways, patios, and decks.
- Entry Door: Wipe down the front door and polish the door hardware.