Preparing the Property Tips
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Interior.
Declutter – Remove excess items from countertops, shelves, and floors to make rooms look spacious.
Deep Clean – Scrub kitchens, bathrooms, baseboards, windows, and floors. A spotless home feels well cared for.
Depersonalize – Remove family photos, personal collections, and anything too taste-specific.
Neutralize Odors – Avoid strong scents. Instead, air out the home and use light, fresh-smelling cleaners.
Maximize Lighting – Open blinds, replace dim bulbs, and use warm lighting to create an inviting atmosphere.
Stage Each Room – Show the purpose of each space (ex: set the table, make the bed, tidy the office).
Touch Up Paint – Freshen up scuffed walls or bold colors with neutral tones.
Organize Closets & Cabinets – Buyers peek inside, so tidy spaces make storage look plentiful.
Repair Minor Issues – Fix squeaky doors, leaky faucets, and anything noticeably broken.
Add Finishing Touches – Think fresh towels in the bathroom, a bowl of fruit in the kitchen, or light throw pillows.
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Exterior.
Boost Curb Appeal – Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and add fresh mulch or seasonal flowers.
Power Wash Surfaces – Clean the driveway, walkways, siding, and front porch.
Clean Windows & Screens – Sparkling windows make a great impression inside and out.
Touch Up Paint – Repaint or touch up the front door, trim, or shutters if needed.
Tidy Outdoor Areas – Arrange patio furniture neatly, sweep porches, and remove cobwebs.
Clear Gutters & Roof Debris – A clean roofline shows good home maintenance.
Check Outdoor Lighting – Replace burnt-out bulbs and ensure the front entry is well lit.
Secure Pets & Pet Items – Hide toys, food bowls, and waste bins.
Repair Fencing & Gates – Make sure everything opens smoothly and looks well kept.
Create a Welcoming Entry – Add a clean doormat, potted plant, and make the door easy to open.
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Backyard.
Mow and Edge the Lawn – Keep grass trimmed and edges clean for a polished look.
Trim Trees & Bushes – Remove overgrowth and dead branches.
Pull Weeds & Refresh Mulch – Tidy flowerbeds and garden areas with fresh mulch or stones.
Clean Outdoor Furniture – Wipe down chairs, tables, and cushions.
Stage Outdoor Spaces – Set up a cozy seating area or BBQ zone to highlight entertaining potential.
Remove Clutter – Store garden tools, toys, hoses, and trash bins out of sight.
Check Fencing – Repair loose boards, sagging gates, or peeling paint.
Sweep Patios & Decks – Power wash if needed for a clean, fresh surface.
String Lights or Add Lanterns – A touch of lighting can add charm and ambiance.
Secure Pools or Hot Tubs – Ensure safety and cleanliness of any water features.
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Bonus Tips.
Leave Lights On for Showings – Well-lit spaces feel more inviting.
Adjust the Thermostat – Keep the home comfortably cool or warm depending on the season.
Secure Valuables & Medications – Always put away personal or valuable items before showings.
Hide Cords & Chargers – Tuck them away to reduce visual clutter.
Put Away Pet Items – Hide litter boxes, food bowls, toys, and crate if possible.
Add a Soft Scent – Use subtle fresh-smelling candles or diffusers (nothing too strong).
Play Soft Music – Light instrumental music can set a calm mood during showings.
Place Fresh Towels & Soap – Give bathrooms a spa-like feel with clean linens and simple décor.
Add a Welcome Sign or Chalkboard – A sweet message can make buyers feel right at home.
Stage “Moments” – A book and coffee mug by a chair, wine glasses on the patio, or cozy blankets on a bed help buyers imagine living there.
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The Home Should Be Photo-Ready When AEAP Arrives.
To make sure your listing looks its absolute best, AEAP kindly ask that all cleaning, decluttering, and staging be fully completed before arrival. A well-prepped home allows AEAP to capture the best angles, lighting, and details—showcasing your space in the best possible way online when it hits the market!
Because AEAP maintains a schedule and aims to deliver consistent, top-quality service to all of the clients, AEAP is unable to wait for cleaning or rearranging to be done at the time of your appointment.
Please review the Home Prep Tips above for a full checklist of what to do ahead of time! :)
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Please Note:
While happy to guide you through the prep process beforehand, AEAP does not do the following on-site:
Move or rearrange furniture
Make beds, clean, or dust
Pick up toys, laundry, or yard items
Handle personal bathroom items (like toothbrushes, shampoos, or deodorant)
Photoshop edits like removing cords, vehicles, power lines, or wall damage may be possible for an added fee—just let AEAP know in advance!
Thank you for helping keep everything on track and photo-ready. AEAP can’t wait to make your home shine online!
An Edge Above Photography, LLC 📸