How to Maintain a House While on the Market

Maintaining a house is never as important as it is when it is placed on the market for selling. There are certain things that need to be done on a daily or weekly basis in order to keep up the inside and outside appearance. Here are some helpful hints in order to better maintain a house while it is on the market.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Hide family photos and personal mementos to maintain a model-home appearance.

2. Clean the floors, kitchen and bathrooms regularly so you are ready for an unexpected showing. Keep cleaning gadgets handy for a last minute touch-up.

3. Pick up clutter before you leave the house. Put away mail or school projects, pick up toys, wash the dishes, make the beds and put fresh towels in the bathrooms.

4. Organize linen closets, kitchen cabinets and even the garage. Keeping less visible spaces neat makes a good impression with potential buyers.

5. Keep the grass cut and remove weeds. Trim and trees and bushes outside so that the house looks approachable.

6. Remove any pet odors or pet stains. While you are away, keep pets in a kennel or carrier.

7. Place an air freshener close to the front entrance of the house. A welcoming scent could make the house more attractive.

Tips & Warnings

• Look into hiring a cleaning company to come once a week if you are unable to maintain the cleaning of the house.
• Prior to placing the house on the market, consider having a professional cleaning team come in and clean everything from fans to baseboards so that the majority of your daily duties are maintaining rather than a full clean.
• If you smoke, begin to do so outside while the house is on the market. The odor might be a deterrent.

Resources

• Visit Realestateabc for advice on maintaining a house for sale.
• Visit Audrie for more information on maintaining a house for sale.