Before You Show Your House

Repaint Siding
Repaint or touch up trim
Repair/repaint gutters and downspouts
Repair/repaint fences
Seal driveway
Remove oils stains from garage floor
Wash all Windows
Remove all screens (windows look cleaner)
Trim trees, hedges, and shrubs
Weed and feed lawn
Remove all clutter (garden tools, toys, etc.)
   

Entranceway
Check working order of doorbell and exterior light
Replace welcome mat
Repair/repaint storm door and/or front door
Clear interior entry of all clutter
Clear and clean out front hall closet
   

Living/Dining/Family/Bedrooms
Repaint or touch up walls and ceilings
Repair/replace old molding
Shampoo carpeting and/or wash and wax floors
Remove excess or unattractive furniture
Clean curtains, shutters, & blinds, etc.
Clean fireplace, mantle, and shelving
Replace old bedspreads
   

Kitchen/Baths
Repair or replace faucets and fixtures
Repaint or re-paper walls
Thoroughly clean range/oven, refrigerator and other appliances
Clear out and clean cabinets, drawers, and medicine chests
Remove clutter from countertops
Clean or replace curtains
Grout tubs and showers
Replace old toilet seats and shower curtains
   

General
Replace burned-out light bulbs
Clear cobwebs from corners and doorways
Wash light switches, handrails, and doorknobs
Clear and clean all closets
Add "welcoming" touches: potted plants, dried flowers, etc.

Before Every Showing or Open House

Exterior
Pick up tools and toys
Put garbage cans in garage
Close garage door
Park cars on street or around corner
   

Interior
Clear off all counters and table tops
Turn on all lights
Open Shades and curtains
Put soft music on stereo
Give the house a pleasant aroma - fresh bread, fire in fireplace, etc.
Set dining room table
Make all beds
Set thermostat at comfortable temperature
Paid utility bills
Current property tax receipts
Real estate listing sheet
Floor plan (if available)
List of upgrades you've put into the house
Map and/or list of community features and points of interest
Warranty information on appliances