The Ultimate Home Seller's Checklist

Make Sure It’s Accessible

-Make all exterior doors accessible. 
-Provide keys or unlock all out-buildings and sheds.
-Remove window security screws, or provide keys for window security locks.
-Make sure all interior areas are accessible. Don’t lock the dog in a spare room or otherwise reduce access to areas in the home.
-Clear the way to the crawlspace access.
-Make sure the A/C unit is uncovered and de-winterized.
-Remove anything blocking access to the Electrical Panel. 
-Remove excess belongings from utility and storage rooms so there is access for inspection. 
-Make sure the attic is accessible and the stairs can be pulled down without endangering belongings or people below.
-Remove excess personal belongings from closets.

Make Sure It’s On (As seasonally able)

-Turn on sprinkler system.
-Turn on A/C System.
-Assure that all utilities are on (Electricity, Gas, Water, and all Pilot lights). 

Make Sure It Works

-Make sure all door locks are operable.
-Assure that all doors and windows open and close properly, and with ease.
-Be sure there is a minimum of one smoke detector per floor.
-Make sure smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries. 
-Make sure CO detectors are installed (and have fresh batteries if they are battery operated or have battery back-up). It’s simply a good idea to have CO detectors, but in some states it is also required.
-Make sure appliances are working: dishwasher, oven, microwave, and garbage disposal.
-Replace any burned-out light bulbs and make sure all interior and exterior light fixtures work. 

Make Necessary Repairs

-Repair Leaks, drips, or water stains. If there is water anywhere where it shouldn't be, it's time to take care of it and repair the damage it left behind.
-If you have any water penetration issues, in a basement for example, it's better to address it now, rather than later. 
-Replace all damaged window screens.
-Make sure all light switches operate properly, eliminating any “mystery switches” that could present doubts about the quality of the electrical system.
-Eliminate anything that wiggles, shakes or teeters. Repair handrails, tighten doorknobs, secure loose toilets,etc. 

Complete A Few Chores

-Remove debris from gutters/downspouts.
-Trim shrubs away from the foundation and away from A/C Condenser Unit.
-Remove wood, debris or stored items away from the foundation.
-Clear debris from under the refrigerator.
-Remove debris from shower drains.
-Clear the clutter. 
-Clean and clear dryer vents.
-Remove “creative wiring” such as extension cords in attic, interior and exterior spaces.  
-Replace/clean HVAC filter.
-Consider having the A/C unit cleaned and serviced especially if it’s been a while.
-Consider having gas fireplace serviced or wood-burning chimney cleaned.
-Test the safety auto-reverse on your garage door and adjust the pressure if it does not auto reverse when encountering a 2” tall block at the garage floor.

Take Care Of Pets And Pet Damage

-It’s best that pets are removed from the premises when possible. Also keep in mind that inspectors need access to the entire home, so the garage and the backyard are not a great idea.
-Repair pet damage. Scratched or urine-soaked wood floor, wood trim, walls, or carpet should be repaired or replaced.

Extras for Homes With Children/Babies

-Consider propping baby gates open so that walking through the home is easy.
-Be sure to provide instructions or necessary devices for operating safety lock mechanisms on cabinets, doors, gates etc.
-Reduce toy clutter if possible.