My Real Estate Blog

As buyers are coming out of recession hibernation, this is the time to have your home shine.

One way to have your home shine, literally, is to let in the light. To do that, let's wash those windows and screens. Ideally, you should complete this task twice a year.  Show of hands, how many of us REALLY follow this rule?

To get streak free windows, there is a great time saving option available. Use a high quality squeegee in horizontal strokes.  These great little tools can help you clean in just a fraction of the time that it takes with other methods, such as paper towels and Windex.   You can even use simple dish soap in a bucket of water as your cleaning solution. After a couple strokes of the squeegee, be sure to wipe off the blade with a work rag. This will help to avoid streaking.

What about the window screens? You can scrub them down outside in your yard with a regular scrub brush and some soapy water. Rinse with a simple garden hose. If you don't have outdoor space to work in, you can always just give those screens a good old fashioned bath in your tub.  

Inside your home, a great way to lighten up the appearance is touching up the walls. If you have kids or animals, you may have grubby hand and paw prints. If you don't want to paint, you HAVE to try the Mr. Clean Magic Erasers!  These things are amazing and you can find them at the grocery store.

This next cleaning tip can also have a positive effect on your health. Allergens live deep down in your carpet, and vacuuming may not be enough. There are steam cleaners for purchase at most home stores, or industrial ones for rent. Steam cleaners can deep clean away allergens and improve the appearance of your carpet.

O.K. now you can go back to the sofa!