The Checklist
If you're a realtor prepping a home for market, here's a quick exterior cleaning checklist that covers the essentials. Not every home needs everything on this list, but running through it helps you figure out what would make the biggest impact for each property.
Windows (Inside and Out)
This is number one for a reason. Clean windows affect both curb appeal from the outside and how rooms feel on the inside. If you only do one thing from this list, do this. Buyers notice windows more than almost any other detail.
Driveway and Walkways
Concrete darkens over time from tire marks, oil, mold, and general grime. A power-washed driveway looks like it was just poured. It's one of the most dramatic before-and-after transformations you can get, and buyers see it the moment they arrive.
Siding and Exterior Walls
Green algae, dark streaks, and cobwebs along the siding make a home look older than it is. A soft wash removes all of it without damaging the paint or material. The home looks fresher and better maintained, which is exactly the message you want to send.
Front Porch and Entryway
This is where buyers stand while they wait for the door to open. They're looking around, noticing details. A clean porch with no cobwebs, no stained concrete, and no grimy railings sets the right tone before they even step inside.
Gutters (Exterior)
Dark streaks running down the face of gutters are called "tiger stripes," and they make the roofline look neglected. Cleaning the exterior face of the gutters is a quick add-on that makes the whole roofline look cleaner.
Patio and Deck
If the home has an outdoor living space, it needs to look inviting. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing outdoor areas, and a dirty patio or green deck undermines the whole selling point. A quick wash brings it back to life.
How to Prioritize on a Budget
If the seller's budget is tight, focus on the things buyers see first: windows, driveway, and the front of the house. These three areas give you the biggest bang for the buck in terms of curb appeal.
If there's room in the budget for the full package, do it. The cost of a comprehensive exterior cleaning is a fraction of a single price reduction, and it can prevent that reduction from being necessary in the first place.
We work with realtors across Mercer, Hunterdon, Somerset, and Bucks County. If you'd like to set up a standing relationship for your listings, give us a call at (609) 255-3787 or visit pleasantviewcleaning.co.