Home Preparation Checklist
Outside:				Basement, Attic, Garage:
		Make sure lawn is well manicured, shrubs are neatly clipped and the walks and porches/decks are swept clean. The grounds make a crucial first impression.				Clean out attic, basement and garage and dispose of everything you're not going to take with you when you move.
		Cut back overgrown shrubbery that looks scraggly, and removed low lying tree limbs. Anything that keeps light out of the house.				Separate items that you won't need again until after you've moved and pack them away neatly in boxes.
		Plant flowers in the front yard.				Repair cracks in basement floor.
		Place a potted plant or flower box by the front door.				Paint ceilings and walls of basement a light color if your basement is dark and gloomy.
		Repaint or re-stain front door to create a pleasant first impression.				Make sure there is plenty of light in the stairway to the basement.
		Repair broken steps.				Vacuum garage and attic floor and rafters.
		Replace torn screens from windows, front and back doors.				Arrange and stack items neatly against walls so areas look larger.
		Make sure walks are free of snow and ice in winter.		Living Areas:
		Inspect the roof and gutters. Clean out badly clogged gutters and replace worn or missing roofing shingles.				Check ceilings for leaks and leak stains. Fix the cause of the damage, repair ceiling and repaint.
		Paint  your house if necessary. A well maintained exterior does more for sales appeal than any other factor. At least paint windows, shutters and trim if exterior looks dull or shabby.				Replace burned out light bulbs, make certain all light switches are working and make sure all bulbs are at least 60 watts.
Kitchen:						Make all floors shine and repair the cause of creaking boards or stair treads.
		Make kitchen bright and attractive for it is the most important room in the house. If it's dull and dated, paint cabinets and update cabinet hardware.				Wash windows and replace or repair any broken windows or screens. Make sure all windows will open and close easily.
		Remove excess small appliances such as toaster, coffee makers and can openers from counters so counters look more spacious.				Straighten up closets, get rid of excess items and store out-of-season clothes so closets look larger.
		Put down new flooring if floor is badly worn.				Use room deodorizer to eliminate musty odors.
		Clean ventilating hood.				Lubricate any sticking or squeaking doors.
		Make sure kitchen smells good - like freshly baked cookies or simmering potpourri.				Have all plaster in top shape. Cracks, nail pops and visible seams in dry wall are easy to fix.
Bathroom:						Have the carpets and draperies cleaned.
		Repair dripping faucets.				Remove items from floors of walk-in closets so prospective buyers have easy access.
		Keep towels fresh and neatly folded.
		Replace old caulking around tubs.				Stick to white and neutrals when repainting and redecorating.
		Clean stains from toilets, bathtubs and sinks.				Clean out fireplace and lay logs in it.
		Keep a deodorizer in bathrooms.