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Cleaning Tips to Get Your House Show-Ready for Buyers

A bright, clean, and organized living room, perfectly staged for a home showing. The decluttered space features neatly arranged furniture and large windows letting in natural light, emphasizing these cleaning tips to get your house show-ready for buyers. A vacuum cleaner and cleaning spray bottle in the corner subtly highlight the freshly cleaned atmosphere.

When selling your home, first impressions matter! Having a clean and organized space is essential to attracting potential buyers. We provide a list of highly recommended cleaning services, but if that’s not in your budget or you prefer to do it yourself, here are some essential cleaning tips to get your house show-ready for buyers.

1. Decluttering for a Cleaner Look

  • Remove excess items from surfaces and storage spaces. Donate to KARM or rent a storage unit to keep your home looking spacious.
  • Organize closets, cabinets, and drawers—buyers often peek inside, and clutter can make spaces feel too small.
  • Store personal items and minimize decorations. Avoid fake flowers and potentially offensive decor like taxidermy, controversial flags, or artwork. The goal is to appeal to the widest range of buyers for a quick and profitable sale.

2. Deep Cleaning Essentials

  • Floors: Vacuum, mop, and steam-clean carpets if needed.
  • Windows: Wash inside and out to maximize natural light.
  • Walls & Baseboards: Wipe down to remove scuffs and dirt.
  • Ceiling Fans & Light Fixtures: Dust and polish for a fresh look.

3. Kitchen Cleaning Tips

  • Wipe down countertops and cabinets to keep them spotless.
  • Remove any prescription medications from the kitchen or bathroom and store them safely.
  • Deep clean appliances inside and out—buyers will check inside the oven and microwave.
  • Empty and deodorize trash bins regularly.
  • Keep the sink and dishes clean at all times.

4. Bathroom Sparkle

  • Scrub showers, tubs, sinks, and toilets thoroughly.
  • Wash or replace shower curtains and mats.
  • Polish mirrors and fixtures for extra shine.
  • Display fresh towels and keep toiletries to a minimum.

5. Odor Control and Freshness

  • Identify and eliminate any strong or unpleasant odors.
  • Use natural fresheners like citrus or baking soda.
  • Open windows before showings for ventilation.
  • If you have pets, keep their visibility minimal—clean litter boxes daily.
  • Take out the trash daily to avoid lingering smells.
  • Pick up toys, shoes, and clutter every day to maintain a tidy space.
  • Keep the yard clear of pet waste, toys, and other messes.

This may seem like a lot, but as a mom of three with two dogs and a cat, I understand! Sticking to these cleaning tips to get your house show-ready for buyers will make the process smoother and help your home sell faster. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out here!