Outdoors

• Spruce up your garden 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 the longest!

• Manicure your front yard; make sure your driveway and entryway are free of clutter

Exterior

• Check that house numbers, mailbox, and exterior lighting are all in good condition

• Touch up with fresh paint as needed

• Inspect chimney for cracks or earthquake damage

• Repair loose trim, drain pipes, and fencing

• Clean stains and window screens 

Living Areas

• Apply fresh paint as needed... think about brightening your interiors with neutral-toned paint

• Clean carpets

• Replace burnt out light bulbs

• Clean the fireplace and remove smoke stains from the wall and mantle

• Clean window coverings

• Replace damaged window blinds 

Kitchen

• Sinks, appliances, and counter tops should sparkle; remove any clutter

• Clean the 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 any 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

Garage

• Remove clutter and tidy up the shelves

• Clean the floor

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 and water heater so buyers know they are looking at a house that has been well maintained