One of the best tips out there in the home staging world, in my opinion, is the laundry basket method.
The method is simple: when you get that text that you have a last minute showing on your home and there is no time to do a real cleaning, take a laundry basket and fill it up with anything unsightly. That may the mean junk mail from the kitchen counter, the shoes your husband never puts away, and if you have kids, it will probably mean lots of toys and snacks which would detract from the presentation of your listing if left strewn about. Sometimes, it may even mean dirty laundry or dishes that there's no time to properly take care of.
The contents of your basket will not be glamorous! But when you have a showing with short notice, this is the quickest way to get your home looking clean, uncluttered, and inviting for the potential buyer. Bonus points if you stock your basket with sanitizing wipes and give your newly exposed surfaces a quick wipe as you clear them, leaving behind a refreshing, clean scent.
The last step, which is perhaps the most important and not to be skipped: Put the basket in the trunk, get in your car, and drive away. Do not shove the basket in a closet or the laundry room! Buyers will be opening doors and cabinets to evaluate what kind of storage space your home has to offer. Take it with you so therer's no chance your potential home buyer may encounter its secret, unsightly contents!
