Spring is a peak season for home sales and a clean, fresh home can make a huge first impression. Buyers are more likely to fall in love with a home that feels well-maintained and move-in ready following some spring cleaning.
So, we thought we’d write this blog to cover simple but strategic spring cleaning tips that can increase your home’s appeal – and potentially its value – before you list it for sale.
Spring cleaning to boost your home’s value
Start with curb appeal: Clean up the exterior
First impressions are everything when it comes to selling a home. Some buyers often judge your home based on its exterior before stepping inside and that colors their judgement throughout the rest of the tour.
As such, it would be worth investing time in power washing your siding, walkways, driveways, and porches. Then, clean or repaint the front door for a refreshed entry. Wash exterior windows for maximum shine and visibility. Finally, clear out gutters and trim overgrown bushes or trees.
Declutter and depersonalize inside
A clean, clutter-free space feels larger and allows potential homebuyers to picture themselves living there.
So, remove excess furniture and personal items such as photos, knick-knacks, etc. Organize your closets and storage areas to show off available space. Consider renting a storage unit or using decorative bins to store your unneeded items during the home sale process.
Deep clean high-impact areas
Potential buyers notice cleanliness, especially in high-use spaces. Therefore, sparkling kitchens and bathrooms can make or break a home sale.
That’s why we recommend scrubbing your kitchens and bathrooms – especially floors, tile grout, sinks, and appliances. Clean under furniture, inside cabinets, and behind large appliances. Don’t forget ceiling fans, baseboards, vents, and light fixtures. Not many things are more off-putting than a touring a dirty home.
Refresh walls and paint touch-ups
A fresh coat of paint creates a clean slate and, if you choose the correct colors, brightens the home.
Start by wiping down walls and doors to remove smudges and fingerprints. Repaint in neutral tones if your current colors are bold or outdated. Touch up scuffs and chips on trim and baseboards.
Eliminate odors and add a fresh scent
A pleasant-smelling home creates a welcoming vibe and helps buyers linger longer during showings. As scent is one of our most memorable senses, this is an important spring cleaning step to not skip over.
To help create an inviting smell, deep clean your carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture. Use natural air fresheners like citrus, lavender, or baking soda. Open windows, weather permitting, to let in fresh air during cleaning.
Stage your home with a spring feel
By adding subtle spring decor throughout your home, it will help buyers emotionally connect with the space.
Our recommendations are to add seasonal touches like fresh flowers, light throw pillows, and open your blinds for natural light. Remove heavy drapes or dark fabrics for a breezier, more open look. Highlight your outdoor spaces like patios or decks with clean furniture and potted plants.
Conclusion for spring cleaning to boost home value
A few strategic spring cleaning steps can have a big impact on your home’s presentation and perceived value. Presenting a clean, bright, and move-in-ready home sets you apart in a competitive spring market.
If you’re thinking about listing your home this spring, contact us for a free home value estimate and personalized staging tips! Our local, Bolivar MO real estate agents have been buying and selling homes in the Southwest Missouri area for decades and are ready to help you get your home sold for the best price possible in today’s market.
