Do You Have a Pre-Showing Checklist?

Your realtor calls to ask if she can bring someone over, like now. You don't dare say no. Are you ready?

Having a printed checklist will come to your rescue at times like this.

This list was originally created by a friend who had a house on the market. She has four children. You can call her compulsive if you like, but I love the way she balances her preference for cleanliness with sane living. She knew it was important to keep her house show-me ready until it sold. 

• Swiffer the floor, and check carpeting for bits of debris.
  
• Relocate anything that’s in the sink to the dishwasher. Wipe sink, faucet, stovetop and counters.
  
• Wipe bath counters, sinks and faucets.
  
• Bring out the good towels.
  
• Add scented cleaner to toilets and put lids down.
  
• Walk through house and toss any stray items into laundry basket that goes into car.
  
• Double-check desk top and tables to be sure all personal papers, credit cards, calendars, mail and valuables are out of sight.
  
• Collect prescription medications in bag to take with you.
  
• Empty all wastebaskets and kitchen garbage into a garbage bag, and remove to outside garbage container.
  
• Cover laundry in hampers.
  
• Put toiletries out of sight.
  
• Check shower and tub areas for toys, soap, stray hairs and facecloths.
  
• Stash small throw rugs under beds or somewhere out of sight.
  
• Close all closet doors.
  
• Open all draperies, curtains and window blinds.
  
• Make sure the temperature is comfortable by adjusting the heat or air conditioning, or opening windows.
  
• Fluff pillows, and smooth bedspreads and slipcovers.
  
• Turn on all lights and ceiling fans. 
  
  
  I believe it will calm you just knowing this list exists, and it will speed things up when you get The Call.