Outdoors

• Spruce up gardens and lawn: trim shrubbery and replace dead plants.
• Yard and patio should be neat; outdoor furniture should be clean and in good shape.
• Clean or paint your front door - remember first impressions last longest!
• Manicure your front yard, driveway and entry - you can't sell what you can't see.

Exterior

• Check that door numbers, mailbox, and exterior lighting are all in a good repair.
• Touch up with fresh paint as need.
• Inspect chimney for cracks or earthquake damage.
• Repair loose trim, drainpipes and fencing.
• Clean stains; clean window screens.

Garage

• Remove clutter; tidy up shelves.
• Wash floor so it looks clean and spacious.

Living Areas

• Apply fresh paint as needed… think about brightening your interiors with neutral-toned paint.
• Clean draperies and carpets.
• Replace burned out light bulbs.
• Clean fireplace, remove smoke stains from wall and mantle.

Kitchen

• Sinks, appliances and counter tops should sparkle without any clutter.
• Wax the floor.
• Clean oven, range and other appliances.
• Clean tile and grout: replace if necessary.

Bathrooms

• Clean mirrors, glass, chrome and porcelain surfaces.
• Replace shower curtain if necessary. Fix and faucet drips or leaks.
• Clean, grout and caulking; replace if necessary

Closets

• Doors and drawers should open and close easily.
• Remove clutter; tidy up shelves and racks.
• Shoes and clothes should be neatly arranged.

Overall

• Check the basics around the house. It takes just a minute to check all doors, windows and cabinets to make sure they don't stick, squeak or are too loose.
• Clean your furnace & water heater, so buyers know they looking at a house that has been well maintained.