Use this checklist to identify areas in your home that need improvement prior to listing it for sale. It's imperative that you take this process seriously, and examine each item carefully. If problems are evident, than it's very likely that the buyer also will notice them, and they probably won't be interested in purchasing your home in its current condition. You don't want to lose a potential sale because you overlooked some obvious problems that could have easily been repaired.

Attic

• Make sure the buyer can easily access the attic if they want to check it.
• Examine the underside of the roof for leaks, stains or dampness.
• Check the insulation and ensure that it is both adequate and not damaged.
• Clean and clear ventilation openings, if necessary.
• Organize and/or clear out items stored in the attic.
• If the attic is accessible and fairly large, consider adding some plywood sheeting to create a small storage area (10 by 10), if one doesn't exist

• Repair cracks, holes or damage to plaster or wallboard.
• Check the condition of paint. Paint is fairly inexpensive, and can cover years of neglect. If you have very dark-colored walls, consider painting them lighter colors, if not white.
• Evaluate any wallpaper. If the wallpaper doesn't look great, or might not appeal to most buyers, remove it and repaint the area with a neutral color.

Windows and doors

• Check windows to doors for proper operations. Adjust as necessary.
• Examine all glass and replace broken or cracked panes.
• Check the condition of weather stripping
• Check for air or water leakage and recaulk.
• Test the doorbell.
• Test the alarm system.
• Replace door handles and locks if worn or broken.
• Clean windows and doors. Repaint if necessary.

• Inspect the floors for creaking boards and worn areas.
• Examine for loose, scratched, cracked or missing tiles.
• Check baseboards and moldings.
• Test the staircases for loose handrails and posts.
• Clean any carpeting. Consider a professional service.

• Check the tile joints, grouting and caulking.
• Remove any mildew.
• Repair faucets and shower heads that are dripping.
• Check the condition of painted or papered walls. Consider repainting in neutral colors.
• Test for proper operation of toilets, and ensure they don't continue to run or leak.

• Wash all appliances.
• Clean the ventilator or exhaust fan.
• Remove grease or stains from tiles, walls, cabinets, and floors. Repair damaged surfaces.
• Polish wood cabinets.
• Defrost the freezer and clean the refrigerator, outside and inside.
• Check dishwasher and disposal for proper operation.

Basement

• Check for signs of dampness, cracked walls or damaged floors.
• Inspect the structural beams for damage.
• Check all pipes for leaks.
• Organize all stored items.
• Clean all appliances (washer, dryer, water heater).
• Check furnace for proper operation.

Garage

• Organize all stored items.
• Clean any shelving or work surfaces.
• Check all plumbing for leaks.
• Remove any oil spots on the garage floor.
• Inspect all walls and ceiling for damage.
• Lubricate hinges and other hardware on the garage door.

• Check for exposed wiring.
• Inspect outlets for damage.
• Repair broken switches and outlets.
• Label each circuit or fuse.

• Check water pressure when faucets in bathroom(s) and kitchen are turned on.
• Look for leaks at faucets and sink traps.
• Clear slow-running or clogged drains.
• Bleed air off radiators if needed, and check for leaking valves.

• Change or clean filters from furnace and air-conditioning equipment.
• Have equipment serviced if needed.
• Clear and clean area around heating and cooling equipment.