Inside Real Estate: Kitchen and Bathroom Prep for Selling

When selling your house, there are a variety of things you can do to maximize your home's appeal and value. Remember that many buyers are looking at multiple houses, so it's important to help your house make a good impression. We'll talk about six major aspects of your home and what you can do to improve them. Previously, we talked about curb appeal, interior maintenance and exterior maintenance.

Now we'll talk about a few specific areas of your home. Kitchens and bathrooms can have a great influence on a potential buyer and should ideally be spotless before a showing. It's important that they be organized, both on counters and in cabinets, and free of mold, mildew and unpleasant odors.

Suggestions:

• Clean all kitchen appliances, inside and out
• Replace all burned out or old light bulbs
• Clean floors and light fixtures
• Deodorize and clean disposal, dishwasher and refrigerator
• Fix leaky faucets
• Clean shower door or replace shower curtain
• Put out fresh towels on towel racks
• Remove soap residue and lime deposits from sink, shower and bathtub
• Make sure toilet flushes properly and is clean