When a house is for sale, the goal is to make it as attractive as possible to potential buyers. The most cost-efficient way to spruce up the home is to clean it thoroughly.
Focus on the rooms that potential buyers are most interested in –the living room, dining room, kitchen and bathroom. Look at each with a careful eye, pick out the most unkempt areas and make those the starting points for the cleaning process. Then, follow the top-to-bottom, left-to-right rule for cleaning each room. That way, nothing is overlooked and the result is much more pleasing.
Give major attention to the kitchen and bathrooms.
Photo kindly supplied by www.gardentrading.co.uk
Don’t Forget to . . .
· Check that windows sparkle both inside and out; on sunny days, dirt and grime will stand out.
· Lamp shades and particularly ceiling pendants are easily forgotten along with curtains & blinds – ensure these are dusted thoroughly. Use a dusting product so the dust is trapped and removed rather than dispersed into the air. Vacuum regularly.
· If repainting is not in the budget, carefully clean surfaces to remove dust, grime and fingerprints. Painted surfaces are usually washable, but test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. Use a non-abrasive, all-purpose cleaner.
· Bad odours avert buyers, pet smells are a big turnoff! Ideally remove all pet bedding before viewings or at least wash it. Carpets are prone to trapping animal smells and it may be necessary to get them professionally cleaned. Before a viewing, open windows to allow some fresh air in and light a few scented candles.
· Clean and freshly ironed bedlinen is a must.
· Finally add some flowers for a pop of colour.
· Keeping on top of housekeeping and general cleaning will make your home look its best. Last minute viewings could occur, so it is important to keep your home orderly for this reason also.
Written by Nikki Bradley Interior Stylist