Selling your home is a big undertaking, and when you add children into the mix, it can feel like a monumental task. The thought of keeping your home “showing-ready” with toys, crafts, and daily life happening can be daunting. But don’t despair! At SLG Home Buyer, we understand the unique challenges families face when selling, and we’ve put together some practical tips to help you prepare for showings with minimal stress and maximum success.
1. Talk to Your Kids Early and Often
Transparency is key. Explain to your children why you’re selling the house and what to expect. Use age-appropriate language and emphasize the positive aspects of moving – a new bedroom, a bigger backyard, or being closer to family or friends. Involve them in the process by letting them help with small, age-appropriate tasks. When kids feel included, they’re more likely to cooperate.
2. Declutter Like a Pro (with their help!)
This is arguably the most crucial step. Kids accumulate a lot of “stuff.” Before showings begin, go through every room and declutter ruthlessly.
- Involve your kids: Make it a game! Challenge them to find toys they no longer play with to donate or pack away for the new house.
- Designate a “kid zone”: If possible, dedicate one room or a corner of a room where toys can be openly played with, while other areas remain more streamlined. This gives them a safe space while keeping the rest of the house presentable.
- Invest in smart storage: Baskets, bins, and storage ottomans are your best friends. They allow for quick clean-up and discreetly hide toys when a showing is scheduled.
- Start packing early: Pack up out-of-season clothing, excess toys, and items you won’t need until after the move. This not only reduces clutter but also gets a head start on packing.
3. Deep Clean and Maintain Daily
A spotless home is a must for impressing potential buyers. Before your home goes on the market, give it a thorough deep clean. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service if time is tight. After that, establish a daily cleaning routine that involves the whole family.
- Assign chores: Even young children can help by picking up toys, making their beds, or wiping down surfaces.
- Focus on key areas: Prioritize cleaning high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Keep a caddy of cleaning supplies handy for quick wipe-downs.
- Address pet messes: If you have pets, ensure litter boxes are clean daily, and pet beds and food bowls are put away during showings. Eliminate any pet odors.
4. Create a “Show-Ready” Routine
Last-minute showings can feel chaotic, but with a plan, you can minimize the scramble.
- The “Go Bag”: Have a pre-packed bag for each child with essential items like snacks, a favorite toy or book, a water bottle, and any comfort items. This allows for a quick exit when a showing is called.
- The “Quick Clean-Up” Sweep: Teach your family the “10-minute sweep” – everyone grabs a basket and puts away items in their designated storage spots before you leave.
- Fresh and Inviting: Before leaving, open curtains and blinds to let in natural light, turn on strategic lights in darker areas, and consider a subtle, pleasant scent like diffused essential oils (avoid overpowering air fresheners).
5. Plan Your Exit Strategy
When a showing is scheduled, it’s best for your family to be out of the house. This allows potential buyers to freely explore and envision themselves living there without feeling intrusive.
- Identify nearby “go-to” spots: Have a list of places you can easily go for an hour or two – a local park, library, coffee shop, or a friend’s house.
- Consolidate showings: Work with your SLG Home Buyer agent to try and schedule multiple showings back-to-back to minimize disruptions.
Selling your home with children can be a challenge, but with a proactive approach, clear communication, and a little bit of planning, you can make the process smoother for everyone involved. Remember, SLG Home Buyer is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for personalized advice on selling your home!