May is not only a great time for spring cleaning, it’s also the best month to sell your home. Here are 10 spring cleaning tips for homeowners who want to impress potential buyers. If you don’t have time to do them all, start at the top and work your way down because they will have the biggest impact.
Replace popcorn ceilings.
This was a popular thing a few years ago but modern day homebuyers don’t like it. Removing or covering a popcorn ceiling is a time intensive process, but can increase the value of your home.
Apply fresh paint.
A new coat of interior and exterior paint could make a world of difference. It dramatically improves the appearance of your home and makes it feel fresh and clean. Try to stick to neutral colors that will go with any furniture, and choose an exterior paint that matches other homes in the neighborhood.
Focus on the floors.
Steam clean all carpets, use a wood-cleaning product on hardwood floors, and consider professional cleaning for tile or marble. The walls, ceiling, and floors are what potential buyers pay the closest attention to while on home tours, so it’s important that they are as clean as possible.
Make a grand entrance.
Repaint the front door and have it match the shutters. Dress up the entry with seasonal decorations that stand out. People are naturally attracted to symmetry, so place any accents on both sides of the door.
Replace or repair the mailbox.
An old or damaged mailbox makes the wrong first impression.
Maintain the yard.
Landscaping has a major effect on curb appeal. Planting flowers in the yard can be an inexpensive way to add a pop of color.
De-clutter and organize.
Keep only the essentials, and put everything else in storage or give it away. Not only will your home feel cleaner and bigger when it’s not filled with stuff, this process will save you time when you’re ready to move.
Let in the light.
Wash the windows inside and out, clean the curtains and blinds, dust any light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs. A room filled with light will feel more inviting.
Deep clean the kitchen and bath.
Wipe down or paint the cupboards, clean the grout between tiles, clear everything off the counters. Re-caulk tubs, showers and sinks and polish the fixtures.
Stage the backyard.
The backyard is often the last thing buyers see on a tour, so it should look nice. Simple staging can make a big difference like adding a table and chair set. Remove any dying plants, and take down any shed or outdoor storage that’s in poor condition.
If you follow these simple tasks your home should sell quickly!
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