Put away yard clutter like hoses , toys , or pet water bowls .
Lay fresh logs in the fireplace .
DAY OF THE OPEN HOUSE
Put checkbooks , kids ’ piggybanks , jewelry , prescription drugs , bank statements , and other valuables in the trunk of your car , at a neighbor ’ s house , or in your safe . It ’ s rare , but thefts do happen at open houses .
Set the dining room table for a special-occasion dinner . In the backyard , uncover the barbeque and set the patio table for a picnic to show buyers how elegantly and simply they can entertain once they move in .
Check any play equipment for spider webs or insect invasions . A kid screaming about spiders won ’ t endear buyers to your home .
Clean the fingerprints off the storm door . First impressions count .
Put up Post-It notes around the house to highlight great features like tilt-in windows or a recently updated appliance .
Hang the new towels in the bathrooms .
Put your bowl of apples or lemons on the kitchen table or bar counter .
Pick up and put away any throw rugs , like the bath mats . They ’ re a trip hazard .
15 minutes before the open house
Open all the curtains and blinds and turn on the lights in the house . Buyers like bright homes .
Light fireplace logs ( if it ’ s winter ).
Didn ’ t get those cookies baked ? Brew a pot of coffee to make the house smell inviting .
DURING THE OPEN HOUSE
Get out of the house and let your REALTOR ® sell it ! Potential buyers will be uncomfortable discussing your home if you ’ re loitering during the open house . Take advantage of your child- and pet-free hours by treating yourself to something you enjoy – a few extra hours at the gym , a trip to the bookstore , or a manicure . MAR
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Remove shampoo , soap , toothbrushes , and other personal items from the bathtub , shower , and sinks in all the bathrooms . Store them in a shoebox under the sink . Removing personal items makes it easier for buyers to see themselves living in your house .
Stow away all kitchen countertop appliances .
ONE HOUR BEFORE THE OPEN HOUSE
MIREALTOR ® | JUNE 2013
Bake the ready-to-bake cookies you bought earlier this week . Put them on a nice platter for your open house guests to eat with a note that says : “ Help yourself !”