Spring cleaning rises to an entirely new level when you're preparing to sell your home. You will need to do more than wash the windows, clean the carpets, and sweep out the garage to attract bids from buyers perusing the listings of Beavercreek homes for sale. There's plenty of work to do and there is no time to waste. If you want your home to appeal to buyers, then the following are some things you need to take care of.

Interior Spaces

You'll want to fix any leaky faucets, repair any damaged appliances, and clean the furnace. You should also replace batteries in smoke detectors, inspect/replace fire extinguishers, and repair any damaged or malfunctioning electrical outlets. While some sellers choose to replace old appliances and upgrade dated lighting fixtures before listing, a better option is to leave these on the table as negotiating chips. Doing so allows prospective buyers to choose the appliances and fixtures that match their vision for the home.    

Carpets should be professionally cleaned. While vacuuming and store-bought steam cleaners are a good start, they can't remove odors and dirt from deep within the fibers. Investing in a thorough carpet cleaning can go a long way toward deodorizing your home and restoring vibrancy to the carpets. 

It is also advisable to give your chimney a good sweep and inspect/repair any damaged seals around windows and doors. This will take care of any drafts before they can send a chill down the necks of prospective home buyers in Beavercreek. 

Finally, be prepared to get drastic in the garage. Cleaning out the cobwebs and removing old newspapers is just the start. When selling your home, it's a good idea to put as much as you can into off-site storage. You will also want to have any oil/fluid stains on the concrete removed and should consider sealing it with an epoxy coating that will protect the floor and appeal to prospective buyers. 

Exterior Maintenance

Spring cleaning should always include a thorough gutter cleaning. As you remove debris from the gutters and downspouts, be sure to note any damage to the roof, siding, or foundation. Damage from water leaks, termites, and winter weather should be repaired prior to listing the home.  

Homeowners with decks or patios should repair/replace any damaged wood or cracked concrete. Pressure washing to deep clean, and then sprucing up the deck with a fresh coat of stain and sealant can add significant value to the home. 

Landscaping

Trimming the trees, pruning the shrubs, and mowing the grass are great places to start as you go through your spring cleaning checklist. When you're selling your home, it's also a good idea to remove lawn ornaments, unused toys, and other features that can distract a buyer's attention. You should also prepare to conduct a thorough examination of your irrigation systems and have any damage professionally repaired. 

Finally, be sure to organize your receipts and warranties. Showing these to prospective buyers can put their mind at ease when it comes to the condition of the furnace, the status of the sprinklers, etc. Buyers love to review maintenance records and are most attracted to homes whose owners have taken care of them over the years. 

The best way to tackle spring cleaning is in stages. Organizing your list of chores and methodically addressing each task is the best way to go. At the top of your list, be sure to contact Wright-Patt Realty. Our REALTORS® would be happy to get started on preparing your listing while you take care of the dusting and downspouts.