Home Preparation Checklist for Selling Your Boston Home
When selling your home in Boston, making sure it looks its best is key to attracting buyers and maximizing your return. Here's a comprehensive home preparation checklist to ensure your property is ready to impress:
Inside Your Boston Home
Floor Coverings (Carpeting, Tile, Linoleum, Hardwood)
- Are there any dirt, stains, or excessive wear?
- Ensure area rugs are clean and stain-free.
Walls and Ceilings
- Check for dirt, fingerprints, or stains.
- Repair nail cracks, tape residue, and water damage.
- Consider repainting or applying neutral wallpaper for a spacious feel.
Doors
- Clean off any dirt or fingerprints.
- Ensure doors open and close easily without squeaks.
- Make sure latches and handles are secure and functioning properly.
Windows
- Ensure glass is clean and crack-free.
- Windows should open and close easily, with secure locks.
- Clean dirt from frames and sills, and repair or replace damaged screens.
Window Coverings (Curtains, Drapes, Blinds)
- Clean for any dirt, stains, or wear.
- Make sure they open and close easily, and check hardware for proper function.
Lighting
- Replace all bulbs with the appropriate wattage.
- Ensure all switches and lamps are in working order.
Pet Areas
- Keep these spaces clean, organized, and odor-free.
Entryways and Hallways
- Clear away clutter and ensure these areas are clean and welcoming.
Closets and Storage Areas
- Keep closets organized and free from clutter.
- Hang clothes neatly and store shoes and boots tidily.
Kitchen
- Make sure all surfaces are sparkling clean.
- Organize countertops, keeping only essential appliances.
- Ensure the refrigerator, oven, and stove are spotless, and faucets are leak-free.
Living Room/Dining Room/Bedrooms/Den/Study
- Vacuum, dust, and remove excess furniture for a roomier feel.
- Keep bookshelves organized and remove fragile valuables.
Bathrooms
- Keep all surfaces sparkling clean.
- Organize countertops and ensure faucets are working properly.
- Make sure towels are clean and hung neatly.
Basement/Furnace Room/Garage/Attic/Storeroom
- Declutter and organize these areas to showcase space and cleanliness.
Outside Your Boston Home
Exterior Structures
- Clean the front door and exterior surfaces.
- Ensure gutters, downspouts, and fences are in good repair.
- Clean and organize lawn furniture, firewood, and yard equipment.
Yard and Environment
- Mow lawns, trim trees, and tidy flower beds.
- Clear sidewalks, driveways, and pathways of snow, ice, and debris.