We've photographed hundreds and homes and no matter what the price of the home is (yes, even multi million dollar homes), sellers continue to make these simple mistakes. Sellers believe that buyers will look past these things - BUT THEY WON'T.
Buyers want to envisage how their life will look in the space. Not how you're living in it.
With that said, here are 40 things to declutter before your first showing, because clutter doesn't just take up space... it repels offers:
- Family photos
- Pet beds, bowls + toys
- Shoes by the door
- Coats on chairs or railings
- Fridge magnets + papers
- Holiday decor (yes, even cute pumpkins)
- Toys in living areas
- Toothbrushes + floss on counters
- Shampoo bottles in the shower
- Floor mats that don't match
- Paper piles or mail stacks
- Chargers + random cords
- Keys and wallets on counters
- Cleaning supplies in view
- Makeup + hair tools
- Visible laundry baskets
- Excess throw pillows
- Blankets not styled or folded
- Extra chairs or stools
- Overloaded bookshelves
- Used candles
- Junk drawer clutter
- Magazines + catalogs
- Expired pantry food
- Overfilled closets
- Laundry room chaos
- Air fresheners + plug-ins
- Knick-knacks with no purpose
- Workout gear lying around
- Bold art that distracts
- Toy bins with missing lids
- Unmade beds (yes, that counts!)
- Personal notes or reminders
- Dishes in the sink
- Full trash cans
- Excess rugs in small spaces
- Pet odors or litter boxes
- Unused kitchen appliances
- Bath mats that look tired
- Anything broken, frayed, or dusty
Why it sells homes faster? A clutter-free space tells buyers: "This home is well-loved, well-maintained, and move-in ready"
Save this post to prep without the panic, and download our prep guide to share with your clients.