property preparation guide

Here are some things you can do to ensure your property is in top shape for photographs and showings. 

2 Weeks Before

✓ Touch up Drywall, chipped paint, etc.

✓ Repair latches on cupboards

✓ Door hardware in good repair (lock should turn smoothly with minimal effort) Oil squeaky doors.

✓ Leaky taps and running toilets repaired.

✓ Caulk around tub, toilet, sink, etc.

✓ Declutter, including inside cupboards, closets and cabinet

✓ Order Status Certificate (if applicable)

✓ Set aside a copy of the survey, utility bills, etc. 

✓ Make a copy of a key/fob for giving access to the property (if applicable)

1 Week Before

✓ Remove fridge magnets.

✓ Replace any burnt out lightbulbs.

✓ Hide family photographs, personal information, etc. 

✓ Hide clutter behind closed doors.

✓ Front door area is clean: no cobwebs, chipped paint, etc. 

✓ Declutter outdoor space: balcony, deck, backyard.

1 Day Before

✓ Remove prep materials (e.g. painters tape, cleaning supplies)

✓ Hide waste bins.

✓ Hide all cables and cords.

✓ Hide all toys.

✓ Remove clutter from desks, dressers, counters, sinks, vanities, tubs/showers. Fresh Flowers/plants.

✓ Finalize all furniture positioning.

✓ Windex glass and shiny surfaces (Mirrors, taps, windows, etc.) 

✓ Clean floors and vacuum.

✓ Rake lawn.

✓ Hide any coats, bags, shoes, floor mats, etc.

Same Day

✓ Make all beds.

✓ Hide small appliances.

✓ Turn off all computer and TV screens.

✓ Turn on all lights including pot lights, lamps, task lighting, hood/fan lights, etc. 

✓ Hide or stage towels and mats (no tea towels on stove)

✓ Position shower curtains (open or close) to your liking.

✓ Close all toilet seats.

✓ Turn off any ceiling fans or any other moving fixtures.

✓ Open drapes and blinds.

✓ Turn on or light fireplaces.

✓ Close any doors to any areas you don’t want shown.

✓ Open all other doors (eg. bedroom, bathroom doors).

✓ Contain or remove all pets.

✓ Hide all pet bowls, beds, toys, and cages.

✓ Hide garbage, recycling bins, toys, and hoses.

✓ Remove all vehicles from the driveway and street front.

Showings

All of the above plus:

✓ Fresh air – Open windows in the morning if necessary.

✓ Ensure house/unit is room temperature (21ºC or 70ºF).

✓ Play background music (e.g. Café Jazz or LoFi Beats)