If the house is carpeted, replace or completely clean stained or odorous areas. If you don’t want to replace the carpet, a good shampooing should take out the worst of the dirt and make it smell better. Clean and polish all the mirrors and windows. Thoroughly clean the oven or remove it if dated or damaged and not worth selling with the house. Clean the drip pans under each burner and inside the oven. Ensure all the dirt build-up and grease are removed. Polish the exterior until it shines. Also clean the other appliances, such as the dishwasher and refrigerator. Clean all kitchen countertops and keep them uncluttered. Reduce the number of items in all the cabinets in the house, including the kitchen cabinets. Clean the window treatments, including blinds, and get rid of all fingerprints around light switches and doorknobs. Be sure the areas around the trashcans are cleaned, especially in the kitchen. Closets should be empty or with only a few clothing items hanging neatly, rather than being overcrowded. Remove items on the floor and shelves, so rooms look cleaner and more spacious. The basement, garage, and attic space should also be cleaned and tidied up. If the home you inherited has any squeaks, leaks, or rattles, do all you can to eliminate them. These noises and sounds impart the impression that there is work which needs to be done. Tighten loose screws, bolts, or nuts on doorknobs, light switches, and cabinet hinges. Tack down any loose moldings. You might want to clean and replace the caulking in the house. If the steps, stairs, or banisters are loose, tighten them. Repair any water leaks and eliminate signs of water damage. You can paint over water stains or replace damaged wallpaper. Fix any doors or windows that do not open and close smoothly.
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