It’s Almost Time To Move!

Congratulations!  It’s time to start packing and getting ready to move.  It’s also time to think about “feathering the nest” a bit for your buyer.  Buyer’s expectations vary, but everybody wants to move into a clean home.  Consider having cleaners come in the afternoon of your move out.

What is generally expected for the property:

• Remove all personal property, including items you're going to throw out
• Schedule bulk trash pick up to occur BEFORE closing day (no bulk trash at curb on closing day)
• All floors to be vacuumed (carpet)/linoleum and tile mopped.
• Kitchen and bathrooms to be cleaned, including all appliances inside and out and sinks/showers.
• Cupboard shelves to be dusted and/or wiped.
• Clean out the garage - including any items that you plan to throw away.
• Items to leave for new buyers - extra flooring, good paint, manuals, warranties or guides regarding items staying with the home.
• Landscaping and pool if applicable to be maintained as it was when the contract was written.
• Patch holes from pictures. We suggest Patch Stick-Nail Hole Filler from The Home Depot.
• Update your address and forwarding information.
• Leave any keys, garage door clickers, fobs for HOA in a kitchen drawer.
• Contact utility companies to have the utilities off/out of your name as of the day of closing.
• Cancel your Homeowners Insurance to coincide with the closing date and make sure they have your forwarding address
• Leave a note with when trash day is and any vendors such as gardener or pool contractor that may be helpful

Remember, the transaction is not over because escrow closes.  If the buyer is unhappy with the condition of the home, they can come after the seller for compensation of damages.

We have found that a note of congratulations goes a long way towards making the buyer feel great about moving into their “new” home.

Remember, you will be expected to be completely out of the homes on the day escrow closes (unless otherwise stated in the contract).  Please don’t wait until the last minute to start packing and cleaning.  In spite of everyone’s best intentions, sometimes escrows don’t close exactly as scheduled.  Please try to be as flexible as possible should we experience any delays.  The sooner you start cleaning and packing, the easier your move will be.  Thank you!