Selling in Southern Maryland? Do these 3 things the week before closing

Kimberly Bean
Kimberly Bean
Published on July 22, 2020

There’s no shortage of activity the week before your Southern Maryland home sale closes. Not only will you be finishing up your moving preparations, but you’ll also need to get your home ready for the buyers.

Here are three things you should do that week to make sure closing isn’t held up.

Gather important documents and other materials for the buyer

The day Martha stepped through the threshold of her first home was exciting, to say the least. As she toured it through new homeowner eyes, however, it didn’t seem the same as when she toured it through starry, house-hunter eyes.

But, there on the kitchen counter was a lone garage door opener and a key. She assumed the key would fit into one of the mailboxes in the community’s bank of them down the street.

But, which one? It took several back-and-forth phone calls, over the course of about a week, to finally determine that her mailbox was number 5. And her mail had stacked up considerably during that time.

So, the moral of that story is to yes, leave the mailbox key, but leave a note describing which mailbox the key fits.

Other items to remember to leave for the buyer include:

  • Garage door openers
  • Landscape irrigation system instructions
  • Pool/spa operating manual
  • Security system instructions

Complete all of the buyer’s requests

If any non-fixtures were included in the sale, set them aside so that they aren’t accidentally packed for your move. In fact, put a note on the item or items so that movers and family members understand that the items are to remain in the home or garage.

Often, buyers request that the seller remove certain items from the home. This may include things you have stored on the side of the house, an above-ground pool, and appliances.

Remove these items and any other personal property from the home before you begin cleaning.

Make time to clean

Southern Maryland home buyers are told to expect the home to be “broom clean,” and most sellers haven’t a clue what this means.

At minimum, you should:

  • Wipe down the insides of cupboards
  • Sweep and wash the floors
  • Vacuum carpets
  • Remove trash from the property (even if this means making a dump run)

Some buyers expect the oven and the interior of the refrigerator to be clean as well.

Finally, plan on leaving the utilities in your name until the sale is finalized. The buyer will perform a final walk-though of the home just before closing and will want to ensure that the major systems are working.

Hughesville MD Homes for Sale and Real Estate Services in Southern Maryland. You now have a search engine to help you with your Southern Maryland home search! And I’m ready to provide you with a custom home valuation if you’re considering selling your home. Let’s connect to discuss how I can help you. Contact Kimberly Bean at 301-440-1309

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