Pre-Arrival Checklist
Exterior
Remove cars from the driveway and park them on the street. Keep garage doors closed.
Hide trash bins, garden hoses, and tools.
Mow the lawn and clear any debris (branches, twigs, visible weeds).
Remove toys and sports equipment.
If pools or hot tubs are clean, uncover them and remove any leaves, but store cleaning equipment.
Clean and arrange outdoor furniture. Open patio umbrellas, adjust chairs, and inflate cushions.
Remove the barbecue cover and store utensils out of sight.
Sweep sidewalks, driveways, patios, decks, and pool areas.
Take down any flags or hanging decorations.
Lighting
Turn on all lights in the house and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Turn on ceiling fan lights, but keep the fans off.
Open curtains, or if you have blinds, lower them and adjust the slats to stay open horizontally.
Turn off all TVs and computer screens.
Clean glass doors, windows, and mirrors to ensure they are spotless and streak-free.
Kitchen / Dining Room
Clean and wipe down all countertops.
Remove small appliances, knife blocks, toasters, etc. A modern appliance (e.g., a coffee maker or kettle) may remain.
Clear the refrigerator of all items, including magnets, photos, and notes.
Hide the trash bin and remove any dishes.
Straighten and neatly arrange all chairs.
Bedrooms
Make the beds and add decorative pillows if available.
Clear nightstands, dressers, and bedside tables of clutter (remove personal photos, cups, alarm clocks, etc.).
Store phones, tablets, charging cables, books, tissues, and other personal items out of sight.
Remove personal photos if possible.
Tidy up any visible clutter under the bed that could appear in photos or videos.
Keep closets clean and organized.
Bathrooms
Neatly arrange hand and bath towels.
Hide trash bins, plungers, and toilet brushes.
Ensure the toilet seat is closed.
Remove all hygiene products from countertops (soap, medications, toothbrushes, etc.).
Clear shampoos, razors, and sponges from the shower, and close the shower curtain or door.
Living Room
Vacuum, sweep, and mop floors as needed, including hardwood surfaces.
Arrange sofas, fluff cushions, and clear clutter from tables and desks.
Dust and clean TV screens and monitors.
Sweep hardwood floors for a polished look.