NuKey Realty- November 14, 2025
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How to Prepare Your Home for a Showing: Simple Steps That Impress Buyers
Getting your home ready to show potential buyers can feel overwhelming. You want it spotless, welcoming, and picture-perfect, but if you’re still living there, that’s easier said than done. Between kids, work, and daily life, the idea of a “show-ready” home can seem impossible.
That’s where a solid plan and a good real estate services company come in. If you’re thinking about selling a house in Spokane, the team at NuKey Realty will help you focus on what actually matters. A few simple updates can make a big difference when buyers walk through the door, and sometimes, it’s the little details that make your home stand out.
Most people form an opinion within the first few minutes. The goal is to help them imagine living there, not to make it look like no one does. The tips below will help you find that balance without driving yourself crazy.
Start with a Clear, Clutter-Free Space
When buyers walk in, they should notice the space, not your stuff. Start by clearing countertops, boxing up personal photos, and storing anything that feels busy or distracting.
Move extra furniture into the garage or a short-term storage unit. A little breathing room helps rooms look larger and gives buyers space to picture their own lives there.
You don’t have to strip your home bare, just simplify. Open, clean spaces photograph better and feel more relaxing during a showing. Positive showings lead to faster home sales.
Deep Clean (Even the Corners You Usually Ignore)
A spotless home quietly says, “This place has been well cared for.” Before your first showing, consider doing a deep clean or hiring someone to do it for you.
Wipe baseboards, wash windows, vacuum vents, scrub appliances, and polish everything that shines. Fresh air helps too, so open windows for a few minutes before buyers arrive.
A clean home doesn’t just look better — it feels better. It tells buyers the house has been maintained, which builds trust before they even ask a question.
Are you looking to purchase a home in Spokane? Search our home listings!
Lighting Makes a Big Difference
Good lighting is one of the easiest ways to make your home feel more inviting. Replace dim or burned-out bulbs with warm, bright ones. During the day, open blinds and curtains to let in natural light.
If your window treatments are dated or too heavy, consider replacing them with something simple, such as sheer panels. Light, airy spaces feel bigger — and more welcoming.
Fresh paint can help too. A neutral shade (think white, beige, or pale gray) gives your home a clean backdrop that appeals to most buyers.
Fix the Little Things Before They Stand Out
You may not notice that squeaky door anymore, but buyers will. Take a weekend to handle minor fixes, such as tightening handles, patching holes, replacing cracked switch plates, and re-caulking where needed.
Even little repairs send the message that your home maintenance has been a priority. Buyers appreciate that — and it helps avoid questions about what else might need attention later.
If you’re not sure which updates matter most, the team at NuKey Realty can help you prioritize. Sometimes, a $10 fix has a greater impact than a $1,000 one.
Keep It Fresh (and Skip the Strong Scents)
Smell is one of the first things buyers notice. Start with a quick air-out — open windows for a few minutes, especially if you cook often or have pets.
Clean carpets, curtains, and upholstery to eliminate any lingering odors. Avoid heavy air fresheners; a subtle scent, such as citrus or linen, is perfect.
Pro tip: Simmer lemon slices in water before a showing, or drop lemon rinds into your garbage disposal. It’s fresh, natural, and makes the whole space feel clean.
Create Curb Appeal That Draws Buyers In
First impressions start outside. A tidy yard and a clean front entry instantly set the tone for what’s inside.
Keep the lawn trimmed, sweep the porch, and clean walkways. Add fresh mulch and a few bright flowers near the entry. Replace a worn doormat and polish up the house numbers.
If you’re thinking about larger exterior updates, like paint or siding, check out NuKey’s post on How Curb Appeal Upgrades Can Boost Your Property Value. Minor improvements often pay off big at listing time.
Stage with a Light Touch
You don’t have to go full HGTV. Just a few thoughtful details can make your home feel warm and welcoming, like it’s move-in ready.
Add accent pillows to the couch, fresh flowers on the dining table, or neatly folded towels in the bathroom. Soft textures and neutral décor help buyers connect emotionally — and that’s what sells homes. For more suggestions, see our blog post, “Tips for Home Staging in Spokane.”
Are you looking to find a home in Spokane? Contact NuKey Realty today!
Secure Pets and Valuables
Pets are part of the family, but not every buyer is comfortable around them. Take pets with you during showings or confine them to a safe, quiet spot.
Also, store your valuables and personal documents in a secure location. It’s one less thing to worry about while people are touring your space.
Step Out During Showings
As tempting as it is to stay, it’s best to leave while buyers look around. They’ll feel more comfortable exploring and asking questions.
Your NuKey Real Estate agent will be there to highlight key features, answer questions, and ensure everything goes smoothly. Take a walk, grab coffee, and come home once the showing’s over.
Quick Q&A: Common Home Showing Questions
How clean does my home really need to be?
Think “hotel ready.” It doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should feel fresh, open, and inviting, making it easy to imagine living there.
Should I light candles or bake cookies?
Subtle is best. A light, natural scent is often more effective than anything strong or artificial.
What if buyers drop in at the last minute?
Keep a 10-minute checklist handy — tidy the counters, empty trash, open blinds, and do a quick sweep.
How long should I be gone?
Most showings take 30–60 minutes. Your agent will text or call when the coast is clear.
Getting ready for a showing takes effort, but it’s worth it. A clean, bright, and welcoming home not only looks great but also helps buyers see the potential. If you’re thinking of selling in the spring, now is the time to start thinking about what might need to be done first.
Whenever you’re planning to sell, reach out to NuKey Realty in Spokane. Our team will guide you through smart, affordable ways to prepare your home for showing and help you attract serious buyers more quickly.
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