It happens to everyone at one point or another during our lifetimes and it usually happens more than once. We find ourselves preparing for a major event: wedding day, graduation, new baby, selling our homes; so here's the big question - what do these events have in common with each other? Yes, they are life altering, yes they are stressors, and most times they are happy occasions. But what else do they have in common? They tend to generate very large to-do lists...call the caterer, call the florist, pick out the color schemes, rent the hall, etc. etc. etc...
What does all of this have to do with preparing for an open house? Well, for starters out comes the famous to-do list followed by the big scramble to find time for completing our list. It has happened to me and I am sure it has happened to you - there have been times when I was so busy that I found myself over thinking and forgetting to take care of the basics (especially when it comes to computer troubleshooting). In case you find yourself in this position, I have decided to post a pre-open house to-do list.
1. Pack up half of your belongings - this will help to eliminate clutter and get you ready for moving day.
2. Pressure wash the outside of the house and driveway.
3. Clean your gutters, outside windows, and screens.
4. Make sure the front door is inviting. Freshen with a coat of paint, new house numbers, and new lighting fixtures.
5. Buy a new welcome mat.
6. Organize all closets and drawers. Buyers will look!
7. Make necessary repairs before your open house.
8. Shine every surface, from ceiling fans to baseboards; that also includes windows, mirrors and floors.
9. Clean and scrub every surface in the kitchen and bathrooms.
10. Depersonalize every room; remove family photos, posters, and non-generic artwork.
11. Neutralize odors.
12. Hire a home stager to create a neutral space that will appeal to buyers!
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