You've just received notice that potential buyers' are on their way to view your home. You have 30 minutes to get your home “show-worthy”. Of course we always recommend you maintain your home to a high standard while for sale, so when things like this come up, you're more or less, ready to go. Knowing first hand, when children and pets are added to the mix, you have even more challenges.
So, take those 30 minutes to cover essentials, and you'll be on your way to selling your home.
Declutter front entrance, put away gardening tools, remove dead flowers and any weeds. Sweep sidewalk and entranceway and shake welcome mat. Buyer's first impressions can have a dramatic impact on how they view your entire home.
Open the curtains and pull back the blinds, and leave the lights on in every room. Natural light enhances the feel of any space and buyers fumbling for light switches in dark rooms can be a turn-off. If you suspect you have any strong odours from cooking or pets, etc. Then deodorize the air (don't over do-it thought) so guests are welcomed with a warm, homey smell. Or really go the extra mile like baking fresh cookies, or an apple pie.
Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home, not you and your family, so in order to help them do that, keep the sink empty, laundry picked up and toys etc. picked up and put away.
Sweep busy areas, especially entrances and doorways. Quickly vacuum carpets, especially large areas like a living room or master bedroom. Wipe down counters and table tops and do a final walk through, with a critical eye (as if you're a potential buyer), and if you like what you see, then you're good to go!