• Yard is mowed and edged.
• Sidewalks, driveway and decks are clean.
• Refuse is collected and hauled away.
• Flowerbeds are cultivated.
• Exterior paint is in good condition.
• Exterior walls are in good condition; replace damaged wallboards and repair damaged bricks and mortar.
• Roof is in good condition, repair if necessary.
• Screens and screen doors are in good condition.
• Front door has fresh paint.
• All exterior lighting is in working order.

Interior

• Walls are clean and unmarked.
• Windows are clean inside and out.
• All plumbing is in good order; repair leaky faucets, and remove stains and mildew from sinks and tubs.
• All doors open and close easily and all hardware is in place.
• Unneeded materials are removed from attic, basement, garage, and other storage areas.
• Kitchen is sparkling clean; counter tops are uncluttered, all dishes are placed in cabinets.
• Every room is neatly arranged to display maximum floor space.
• Closets are neatly arranged and unneeded materials are removed.
• All lighting fixtures and lamps have bulbs and are in working order.

• When your Realtor schedules a showing, arrange for you and your family to be away from home; prospects will take more time to view your home.
• Eliminate any distractions for the prospect by making sure that the radio and television sets are turned off.
• If you have a dog, be sure that it is penned.
• Whether your home is being shown in the daytime or at night, always leave enough lighting on, both inside and out, to brighten every corner of your home.
• If it is necessary for you to be at home during a showing, allow the agent to direct the prospective buyer through the home. Your agent is thoroughly familiar with the prospect’s needs and can best emphasize the features of your home. If the prospect has any questions about your home, they will be discussed with you at the proper time.
• It is always best to allow your agent to discuss the areas of price, terms, possession or other factors related to the sale of your home. Your agent is in a better position to handle these matters.

If you move before your house is sold

• Make arrangements for the property to be maintained, including the yard.
• Contact your insurance company to tell them that you are vacating and arrange for continued coverage.
• Inform your agent where to contact you so purchase contracts can be presented quickly.