Seller Checklist: 15 Things to Do Before Every Showing
- Andrea Baudreau
- 20 hours ago
- 3 min read
When your home is on the market, every showing matters. The way your home looks and feels when buyers walk through the door can influence how quickly it sells and how strong the offers are.
Most sellers focus on the big preparation steps like decluttering, deep cleaning, staging, and making repairs. Those are important, but what many people don’t realize is that the small details before each showing can make just as much of a difference.
Over the years, I’ve helped many sellers prepare their homes for showings, and there are a few simple things I always recommend doing before buyers arrive. These small steps help your home feel cleaner, brighter, and more inviting and that’s exactly what helps buyers picture themselves living there.
Once you decide to sell your home, you’ve likely already tackled the big things: decluttering, deep cleaning, making repairs, and preparing the home so it shows beautifully. But when the showings start, there are a few simple habits that can make a big difference in how buyers experience your home.
Over the years, I’ve found that the homes that sell fastest (and for the best price) are the ones that consistently show well every time a buyer walks through the door.
Here’s a quick checklist I like to share with my sellers to help them get ready before every showing.
1. Pick Up and Tidy Up
Make sure beds are made and everyday items like toys, clothes, and personal items are put away. A clutter-free home feels larger and helps buyers focus on the space itself rather than the belongings inside it.
2. Clear the Counters
Kitchen and bathroom counters should be as clear as possible. Leaving a few larger items like a coffee maker or toaster is fine, but putting away smaller items makes the space feel cleaner and more spacious.
3. Wipe Down Surfaces
Before leaving for a showing, do a quick wipe of visible surfaces like dining tables, side tables, and countertops. Even a little dust can stand out when buyers are looking closely.
Kitchen Touch-Ups
4. Remove Fingerprints
Appliance handles, cabinet doors, and light switches collect fingerprints quickly. A quick wipe down can make the kitchen look fresh and well cared for.
5. Organize the Refrigerator
Believe it or not, buyers often peek inside the refrigerator. Keeping it neat and clean helps maintain the impression that the home has been well maintained.
6. Keep the Smell Neutral
Avoid cooking foods with strong odors before a showing. If you want the home to smell inviting, subtle scents work best. Many sellers like to simmer a small pot of citrus, cinnamon, or vanilla on the stove for a light, welcoming fragrance.
Bathrooms Matter
7. Replace Used Towels
Put away everyday towels and hang fresh, clean towels for showings.
8. Clean Mirrors
A quick wipe of the mirrors removes water spots and smudges and instantly makes the bathroom feel cleaner.
Protect Your Valuables
9. Put Away Jewelry
Small valuables should always be stored out of sight.
10. Secure Firearms and Collectibles
Any firearms or valuable collectibles should be locked or removed.
11. Store Electronics
Laptops, tablets, and small electronics are best kept out of view during showings.
12. Put Away Medications
Prescription medications should always be stored securely.
Don’t Forget the Exterior
13. Clear the Walkway
Sweep pathways and remove debris so buyers can easily access the front door. First impressions start before they even step inside.
The Final Walk-Through
14. Turn On the Lights and Open the Window Coverings
Even during the day, turning on lights makes a home feel brighter and more welcoming. Open curtains and blinds to bring in as much natural light as possible.
15. Turn Off the Alarm and Take Pets With You
Not all buyers are comfortable around pets, and some may have allergies. It’s always best for pets to be out of the home during showings.
A Small Optional Touch
Some sellers like to leave bottled water or small treats for buyers and their agents. It’s not necessary, but it can add a thoughtful, welcoming touch. Preparing for showings may feel like a lot in the beginning, but once you get into a routine it usually takes less than an hour. The goal is simple: make it easy for buyers to walk in, feel comfortable, and picture themselves living there. And remember, the better your home shows, the stronger your chances are of receiving great offers.
Related Articles:
What Buyers Look for When Touring a Home
Comments