Before your home hits the market your agent will have given you suggestions and guidance on how to declutter around the house to emphasize its beauty, functionality, and spaciousness.
You should be aware, however, that when your property is listed and ready for a showing or an open house, there are some items that can be turn-offs for buyers and these things should not be left out, used, or visible. Here are some of them.
Litter Boxes and Other Pet Supplies
Never leave a litter box out during a showing or an open house. Depending on the type of litter box you have, although you may feel confident that you’ve cleaned it thoroughly, the chance that you’ll miss something simply isn’t worth the risk of a foul odor.
Besides, when buyers see litter boxes and other pet paraphernalia around your home they may begin to wonder about things like scratched or stained hardwood floors, or other damage that can be caused by pets. So it’s best to stow pet supplies and toys, and banish your cleaned litter box to the garage—for the time being.
Air Fresheners
You want your home to have a pleasant scent, and while your air-freshening plug-ins may be pleasing to you, buyers with allergies or sensitivities to strong scents may find them off-putting and shorten their visit.
Also, potential buyers may wonder if your heavy scents are being used to cover a smell—perhaps smoke or pet odor? So just give your home a thorough cleaning, and—depending on the season–keep it well-ventilated, and moderately cooled or heated.
Air Fryers, and Other Countertop Appliances
An air fryer may be your best friend at mealtime, but during showings and open houses it can be your countertop’s worst enemy. Appliances like this, along with slow cookers, toasters, toaster ovens, and items like paper towel holders, take up precious counter space and can make things look cramped. You want potential buyers to see spacious kitchen counters and be able to imagine their own items there.
In your bathrooms practice the same concept to help keep your counters clutter-free. Avoid using items like soap dishes, and toothbrush and tissue holders.
