How Clean Should You Leave Your House When Selling It?

If you're getting ready to sell your home, you may be wondering - how much cleaning do I really need to do? While you don't necessarily have to leave the house spotless, a clean and tidy home makes a much better impression on potential buyers. Here are some tips on what to focus on when cleaning before listing your home for sale.

Declutter and Depersonalize

Before deep cleaning, take time to declutter and remove personal items. Buyers want to envision themselves living in the home, so pack away family photos, keepsakes, and excess clutter. Organize closets, cabinets and drawers. Donate or dispose of items you no longer need. A clutter-free space looks cleaner and more spacious.

Focus on High-Impact Areas

Kitchens and bathrooms are the most important areas to deep clean, as buyers pay extra attention to these spaces. Clean and degrease all surfaces, appliances, and fixtures. Clear countertops of all items except a few decorative pieces.

Clean floors and freshen up caulk and grout. In the rest of the house, wipe down baseboards, windowsills, light fixtures and ceiling fans. Wash the windows for a clear view. Shampoo carpets and clean hard surface floors. Dust furniture and vacuum upholstered pieces.

Eliminate Odors

Unpleasant smells are a huge turnoff for buyers. Air out the house by opening windows. Wash any pet bedding and consider shampooing furniture and carpets if you have pets. Avoid cooking strong-smelling foods leading up to showings. Light a scented candle or use air fresheners for a clean, fresh scent.

Curb Appeal Counts

Don't forget the exterior! Curb appeal is a buyer's first impression. Mow the lawn, trim bushes and trees, pull weeds, and dispose of any debris. Consider pressure washing your home's exterior, driveway and sidewalks. Clean the front door and porch. Adding a few potted plants creates a welcoming entry.

Maintain Cleanliness

Once your home is clean and listed, keep it show-ready as much as possible. Create a daily cleaning schedule to stay on top of messes. Make beds, do dishes, wipe counters, and vacuum daily. Have a last-minute cleaning checklist for surprise showings - clear clutter, open blinds, turn on lights, etc.

While you don't need to leave the house perfect, a clean and inviting home helps buyers focus on your home's best features. If cleaning feels overwhelming, consider hiring professional cleaners for a deep clean before listing and to maintain cleanliness before closing. A little extra effort can make a big difference in how quickly your home sells!