We are all slowly stripping off our winter layers, the air feels lighter and we all have an extra spring in our step. Spring is definitely on its way to Cheshire - a very popular time for many to put their homes back on the market.

One of your first steps as a seller is to make your home look as presentable as possible. You know what that means - Spring Cleaning!  Now that it is lighter and we can see a little better, dust and cobwebs stands out even more.  There is no better time then when the weather gets warmer to clean the home.

Before you get started, a little spring cleaning history...

The origins of spring cleaning date back to the Persian New Year. Iranians called it "khooneh tekouni" which translates to "shaking the house." On this first day of spring, they would clean their homes from top to bottom. Another possibility of its origin was the ancient Jewish practice of cleaning the home before Passover. In North America and Northern Europe, back before the invention of the vacuum cleaner, March was thought to the be best time for dusting because it was warm enough to open the windows and doors, but not warm enough to invite the insects in.  

Okay. Now that we have sufficiently put it off, it's time to get cleaning.  Cleaning an entire house is a very overwhelming process.  These are just a few tips and tricks to get you started.

1) Pick a bright day you can open up the blinds and let the sun shine in.

2) If it's warm enough outside, open up the windows to let the house air out.

3) Always start at the top when cleaning any room - Ceiling to walls to floors.

4) Walls: Clean the walls first with a cloth or microfiber mop. Then, if its safe for the walls, take a damp cloth to remove any sort of residue. (Tip: A mild vinegar is great for removing stains)

5) Window Coverings: Wash any fabric drapes and air dry them out outside.

6) Windows: Once again, using that spray bottle of vinegar along with a newspaper is a great way to really make the windows shine.

7) Carpet: Sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda over the carpeting, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum up.

As you go along, pay close attention to places and things that may need repairing. Spring cleaning is the perfect time for this because you are going to be getting up close and personal with areas of your home you may not normally notice.

If you are looking to put your Cheshire home on the market this spring, don't hesitate to contact me.  I can be a great resource for Cheshire vendors that may be able to help you with the cleaning jobs that are too overwhelming to do on your own. Until then, keep that spring in your step!

Sally Bowman
Sally Bowman Real Estate
Your Cheshire Real Estate Expert