• Box up possessions that you want to keep but do not currently use and put them in storage. • Keep surfaces clean and free of collected items. ROOM-BY-ROOM LIST • Kitchen—Clear the counters, leaving only three or four essential items. Keep towels, dishcloths, and potholders out of sight. Soaps and cleaners should be stored under the sink. Rarely used small appliances can be packed and put in storage. Pack away teacups, serving dishes, and platters if you normally showcase them. If you want to draw attention to decorative shelving, put a few pieces out for show. Seasonal dishes and accessories should also be stored. Remove any pest control traps or poison from the pantry and closets. Appliances are not extra shelving or storage. Buyers will not want t o fin d the microwave used as a bread box or the oven as cookware storage. • Bathrooms—Make the bathroom look as though it’s rarely used. Remove everything from the cabinets and drawers. Keep what you need or will use and discard the rest. Store prescription medications out of sight and out of reach. Find a safe place for jewelry, keepsakes, and cosmetics/perfumes. Store hair products and styling tools in the cabinets. • Bedrooms—When it comes to clothing, people usually wear 20 percent of the clothes they own, 80 percent of the time. (Remember the 80/20 rul e?) Th e focus is showcasing closet space. Only hang clothes that you wear most o ft en and store the rest. • Dining Areas—Clear clutter o ff a n y fl at surfaces, including the dining table, leaving only subtle decor such as a vase o f fl owers. • Living Areas (living rooms, family rooms, and great rooms)—Gather stacks of books, magazines, remotes, toys, gaming gadgets, and throws. Again, clear al l fl at surfaces, packing away nonessential items and storing magazines and electronics in decorative bins. Fold and drape throws on chairs. • O ffi ce Space—Organization is the focus for o ffi ce space. Over fl owing shelves do not re fl ect useful space. Keep all personal
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