How to Get Your Home Ready for a Showing on Short Notice
There are few things more stressful than getting a call from your real estate agent saying there’s a showing scheduled for your home in just a few hours. If you’re selling your house, you know that first impressions matter, and you don’t want to miss an opportunity because you didn’t have time to prepare. Over the years, I’ve learned a few key strategies that make preparing for a last-minute home showing not only manageable but effective. Here’s how you can get your home looking its best in no time, even on short notice.
1. Prioritize the High-Impact Areas
When you're pressed for time, it’s important to focus on areas of the home that will leave the biggest impression. In my experience, these are the spaces that buyers tend to notice first: the living room, kitchen, and bathroom. If you're in a rush, don't waste time scrubbing every nook and cranny; instead, concentrate on cleaning these high-traffic areas where potential buyers will spend most of their time. A clean and tidy living room can give off a warm, welcoming vibe right away, which is exactly what you want.
1.1 Living Room
The living room is often the first area buyers see when they enter the home. Make sure it’s free of clutter. I recommend quickly picking up any stray items like books, shoes, or children’s toys. Fluff the cushions on the couch and give the floor a quick vacuum. If possible, open up the curtains to let natural light flow in, as bright, airy spaces are always more appealing. A couple of fresh flowers or a decorative bowl can also add a touch of elegance.
1.2 Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms for a potential buyer. If you have time, wipe down counters, clean any visible dishes, and put away any food or clutter. If your kitchen has an island, make sure it’s tidy and free from unused appliances or papers. A quick wipe of the sink can also make a huge difference. Don’t forget to take out the trash; nothing turns off buyers more than the smell of garbage.
1.3 Bathroom
Next, focus on the bathroom. This room can make or break a showing in terms of cleanliness. I always recommend wiping down the countertops, putting away any personal items, and quickly scrubbing the toilet and sink. Make sure there are fresh towels hanging, and if you have any scented candles or air fresheners, use them to eliminate any odors. Finally, clean the mirrors to make the space appear brighter and more polished.
2. Declutter Quickly
When you’re short on time, decluttering is a game-changer. A tidy home appears more spacious and organized, which is exactly what you want when trying to sell. I’ve found that tackling the most cluttered areas, like the entryway and hallway, can make a big difference. As you declutter, try to keep things simple by removing any unnecessary items from counters, tables, and shelves.
2.1 Put Away Personal Items
During a showing, you want potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space, not feel like they’re intruding on someone else’s personal space. This is why it’s important to quickly stash away family photos, personal mementos, and any other items that are too personal. You don’t have to remove everything, but making the space feel neutral can help buyers imagine themselves in the home.
2.2 Create Space in the Closets
Another tip I always give is to make your closets look as spacious as possible. Buyers will open closet doors to gauge the storage space, so remove excess items to make the space appear larger. You don’t need to organize the closet perfectly, but try to keep it tidy and free from overstuffed shelves or piles of clothing. A well-organized closet can make a big impact on how buyers perceive the home’s storage potential.
3. Make the Space Smell Fresh
One of the most powerful senses in creating an impression is smell. A fresh, clean scent in your home can make a lasting impact on potential buyers. If you're pressed for time, try lighting a candle, boiling some cinnamon sticks on the stove, or using an air freshener to create a pleasant atmosphere. I’ve learned that a home that smells clean and welcoming can leave buyers with a positive impression of the space, even if it’s not perfectly spotless.
3.1 Open Windows for Fresh Air
Sometimes, the best way to freshen up a home is by simply opening windows and letting in some fresh air. Not only will this help circulate the air and remove any stale odors, but natural light also makes the space feel more inviting. If you have a few minutes, open windows in key rooms like the kitchen and living room to let the air flow through.
4. Create the Illusion of Space
When you're preparing a home on short notice, creating the illusion of more space is key. Simple things like moving furniture around to open up the room or pushing back curtains so they don’t block light can make a room feel larger and more airy. You can also rearrange smaller pieces, like lamps and chairs, to make the space feel less cramped.
4.1 Utilize Lighting
Lighting can drastically change the way a space looks. I’ve found that turning on all the lights in a room—overhead lights, lamps, and even accent lighting—can make the space feel brighter and more inviting. If you have dim lightbulbs, it’s a good idea to swap them out for brighter ones. The more light, the more spacious and welcoming the home will feel to potential buyers.
5. Final Touches to Complete the Look
Once you’ve tidied up the high-impact areas and created a welcoming atmosphere, it's time to add the final touches. Consider putting out a fresh welcome mat at the front door, or placing a decorative pillow on the couch for added flair. I always try to add a small bouquet of fresh flowers to the kitchen or dining table to give the space a touch of vibrancy. These little touches can make your home feel more inviting without taking up too much time.
5.1 Leave a Personal Note
If time allows, consider leaving a small personal note for the buyer. I’ve learned that buyers appreciate it when sellers are accommodating and transparent. A short note welcoming them to the home can add a personal touch that makes them feel more at ease and creates a memorable experience during the showing.
