CONGRATULATIONS! Having your home under contract and hurrying off to new adventures is very exciting! Now it’s time to get busy packing and moving, but many Sellers wonder how clean they really need to leave the home.

Most understand they need to leave the property ‘broom swept’ for the next owners. But what does this actually mean? This is a broad statement and most people will have conflicting thoughts on how far they need to go to satisfy this expectation.

I’ve seen a lot of unsatisfactory situations, so I thought this would be a helpful topic to briefly discuss!

There’s nothing more disappointing then showing up for a final walk through ahead of your settlement and finding the home was left a mess.

Yes, moving is hectic and exhausting… I’ve been there a number of times… however it’s really important to factor in time OR hire a service to properly clean prior to closing day.

When a Buyer is paying top dollar for a property, there is an expectation that the property be delivered clean. SO… Sellers, please review the following DO’s and DON’TS before closing day arrives.

DO - Clean out EVERY closet, drawer, and cabinet. Leave NOTHING behind… not even a broom.

DO - Clean the appliances. Remnants of food left in the refrigerator, on the stove, or in the microwave is not a fun surprise for a new homeowner.

DO - Sweep and Vacuum all floors and stairs.

DO - Clean the bathrooms! A deep clean here would be nice, but at a minimum be sure to leave a clean sink, clean toilet, swept floor, and no soap scum in the shower.

DON’T - Do not assume the Buyers will want any of your personal items. They should not have to spend time or money removing furniture, cleaning supplies, paint cans, yard tools, etc. If you think they may want something, always ASK first.

DON’T - Don’t take down anything that is attached to the home without prior agreements. This means items such as light fixtures, TV wall mounts, and curtain rods. If the buyer did request/agree for anything to be removed, be sure to repair any holes!

DON’T - Most people will accumulate significant trash during a home clean out. DO NOT leave it on the curb past closing day! If your trash collection is not until after closing, you need to schedule a pick up. Nobody wants to pull up to their new home with a pile of trash out front!

I have used and recommend the Bagster! You simply purchase this large dumpster bag and once it is full, you schedule a pick up. SO easy! You can order a Bagster on Amazon.

TIP! Once it is delivered, make sure to set it up in a location where the truck can easily access it. Make sure there are no power lines or trees overhead that would make the pick up impossible!

What can happen if the home is not fully cleaned out?

This is what the final walk through is for. Buyers will inspect that the home is in the expected condition before they head over to sign the paperwork.

Excessive dirt, personal belongings left behind, or trash can create a pretty uncomfortable settlement day. Buyers may refuse to sign closing documents until the house is in reasonable condition. Avoid any potential road blocks and take the time to pass on your beautiful home with respect and big smiles!

Thoughts, Questions? Message Me!

Emily Woods, REALTOR - Licensed in PA & NJ