Dear Heather: Spring is here, we are thinking of selling our house. Have you got any tips for spring cleaning? — Seller

Dear Seller: If you are thinking of putting your house on the market, before the “For Sale” sign goes up, be sure to give your property the ultimate spring cleaning.

When it comes to showcasing your home for sale, there’s no such thing as a house that’s too clean.

Here’s some suggestions for your spring cleaning project.

Review each room for grime and clutter, including the garage, basement or attic, as there are multiple steps to a polished look. Give yourself time, as every surface needs to be cleaned and just like when company comes, clean and de-clutter to impress.

Domestic doyenne Martha Stewart’s website provides a detailed spring-cleaning checklist down to how-to techniques for window washing. (She even recommends replacing grungy bathroom tile grout!). Her tips dovetail with what real estate experts recommend: clean windows and screens, clean doors and finger-marked walls, move the refrigerator and vacuum the coils, clean the stove inside, outside, behind and underneath!

Wash or clean drapes and blinds, steam clean carpets and dust everything — from baseboards to the tops of doors.

You only get one chance to make a first impression, as the saying goes. Sometimes it might be necessary to rent a storage unit, and not only clean out closets (buyers need to visualise where their stuff will go) but also remove everything from the garage (dust and sweep it too). You might be able to de-clutter for cash: recycling used electronics and other unwanted items can earn cash. Bathroom(s) and kitchen must be spotless. “Dusty doesn’t sell — at least not for a good amount of money.”

Try and avoid highly scented cleaning products, as many people are sensitive to synthetic fragrances found in common household cleaning and air freshening products.

And for continued clean and healthy living, don’t forget to frequently wipe down high-touch spots, such as light switches and doorknobs.

Houses that have been on the market for months have sometimes been known to sell after they have been cleaned thoroughly.

Contact Heather if you would like a free copy of our Coldwell Banker Home Enhancement Guide.

• Heather Chilvers is among Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty’s leading sales representatives. She has been working in real estate for 25 years. If you have a question for Heather, please contact her at hchilvers@brcl.bm or 332-1793. All questions will be treated in confidence.