Short Answer
Prepare your home for showings by cleaning thoroughly, decluttering, depersonalizing, and staging each room. Make beds, put away dishes, take out trash, and remove excess furniture. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light. Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Remove pets and valuables. Leave during showings so buyers can explore freely. A clean, neutral, welcoming home sells faster and for more money.
Showings are your home's opportunity to make a great impression on potential buyers. Start with a deep clean of every room, including floors, windows, countertops, and bathrooms. Declutter by removing excess furniture, personal items, and countertop clutter. Depersonalize by removing family photos, personal collections, and anything that makes the home feel like it belongs to someone else. Stage each room to highlight its best features. Arrange furniture to create an inviting flow. Add fresh towels in the bathroom and make the beds. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light. Turn on all lights, including lamps, to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Remove pets from the home during showings. Some buyers are allergic or uncomfortable around animals. Secure valuables, prescription medications, and sensitive documents. Leave during the showing. Buyers feel uncomfortable discussing the home with the owner present. Go for a walk, run errands, or visit friends. Your agent will handle the showing and collect feedback.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
I know preparing for showings can be stressful, especially when you are living in the home. I will help you create a plan that works for your schedule. A little effort before each showing can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your home. Think of it as setting the stage for your home's best performance. I will give you specific tips for each room and help you keep your home showing-ready without driving yourself crazy.
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