Getting your home ready to sell requires thorough cleaning and decluttering, but once your belongings are packed and ready to move for the new owners to move in, you may see things that were hidden by furniture and other items. While most contracts state that the home should be “broom clean” at the time of closing, some extra cleaning will be necessary.

  • Once the walls of every room are bare, use a vacuum, flat duster, or sweep mop to go over all of the walls, permanent fixtures, and ceilings. Wipe the walls and ceilings down with mild cleaner and water, and a flat mop is a great tool to make this work go quickly and efficiently.
  • Vacuum all drawers and cabinet interiors, then wipe down with a mild cleaner and allow to dry before closing.
  • Ceiling fans and light fixtures should be turned off, dusted, and wiped down thoroughly.
  • Clean and disinfect bathrooms and kitchens from top to bottom.
  • Move appliances to clean beneath and behind them, and ensure interior surfaces are completely clean.
  • Have your agent reach out to the buyer’s representative to ask the buyer if they would like for you to leave any extra paint, tile or flooring, vinyl siding, etc., especially if they are not planning on a remodel. If so, stack them neatly in the garage or storage area.
  • All outdoor areas should be free of debris, do not leave garbage behind, and mow the lawn shortly before closing.
  • The best time to vacuum carpets and clean hard flooring is after everything is out of the home.

At best, the house should be sparkling clean upon the final walk-through. Sometimes, a dirty home can hold up closing, and that is never a good thing. If you simply do not have time to do a thorough cleaning before moving out, hire a professional team to do the dirty work for you.

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.