Put your home’s best foot forward. Every. Showing.

Make every room feel bright, fresh and comfortable.

• Light the way. Turn on lamps and room lights throughout the home so buyers can explore without searching for switches.
• Let daylight in. Open curtains and blinds to highlight natural light and views.
• Freshen the air. Air out the home beforehand when weather allows. Avoid lingering cooking, smoke and fireplace odors; skip heavy fragrances.
• Set a comfortable temperature. Make the home pleasant to tour, whatever the weather.
• Quiet the distractions. Turn off TVs. If you play music, keep it soft and unobtrusive.

A few familiar routines make the whole home feel cared for.

• Make every bed. Straighten bedding, smooth wrinkles and arrange pillows.
• Give floors a quick refresh. Vacuum rugs, carpet, wood floors and stairs as needed.
• Reset the bathrooms. Hang clean towels, lower toilet seats and put away toiletries and prescriptions.
• Clear the kitchen sink. Wash and put away dishes, wipe surfaces and leave counters tidy.

Keep it simple, thoughtful and easy to enjoy.

• Add a small welcome. Bottled water or individually wrapped treats are an optional, easy finishing touch.
• Keep flowers fresh. If you have flowers out, refresh the water and remove any wilted stems.
• Let buyers take their time. Leave rooms easy to enter and explore, with clear paths between spaces.

From experience. Heidi’s showing tip: A small gesture can make a visit memorable. A welcoming space and a little hospitality go a long way.

Help buyers focus on the home while keeping your belongings secure.

• Make a plan for pets. Arrange for pets to be out of the home or safely contained. If a friendly pet must stay, confirm visitors are comfortable beforehand.
• Tidy pet areas. Empty litter boxes, clean up yard waste and tuck away bowls, toys and bedding when possible.
• Secure sensitive belongings. Put away money, checkbooks, financial papers, passports, medications and valuables.

The showing starts before buyers reach the front door.

• Refresh the approach. Sweep the entry and tidy the front steps, porch and main walkway.
• Clear the path. Keep walkways and steps free of snow, ice, leaves and other obstacles.
• Tidy outdoor living spaces. Arrange patio furniture and put away loose tools, hoses and everyday clutter.
• Show seasonal amenities at their best. When practical, have pools and hot tubs clean and ready for viewing, with safety barriers secured.
• Check the entrance. Make sure the front door and the agreed showing access are ready for the appointment.