As summer approaches and we all get busier and spend more time outside, inside chores can easily get overlooked.   Here are some of tips for a quick cleaning of the house:

• Vacuum carpets – nothing makes the whole house feel clean like freshly vacuumed floors.
• Clear counters of all clutter – have a bag or basket handy for each family member and place items that are on counters or just laying around in their basket to be put away. The baskets – if not overflowing – will present a cleaner look than things laying on counters and such.
• Clear the kitchen sink and counters of all dirty dishes.
• Bathrooms – can get messy the fastest and yet can be cleaned quickly as well.  Keep cleaning wipes handy and each time someone uses the room they can wipe down the counters, the toilet or the faucets for a quick shine!   Change the towels, again fresh towel make the room feel clean and fresh.
• Make the beds. 
• Carry a dusting cloth and a dry/wet cloth with you as you walk the house, it takes just a few minutes to tidy up and with these tools you can walk and clean easily. 
• On nice days, open the windows, fresh air does wonders. 
• Add some nice smell – candles or add some vanilla extract to water and boil on the stove. 
• Fresh flowers – you are outside anyway, pick some and add them to rooms around the house.   Try different arrangements and different “vases”. 
• Add candy dishes with colorful candies to end tables.  Or use marbles or colorful rocks to create a “sunny” display. 

Some outdoor tips:

• Sweep the entryway, porch and walkways.
• Pay special attention to the front door, remove cobwebs that can quickly accumulate and create a “non welcoming” feel to visitors.  Many of us enter our homes thru the garage doors and don’t realize what our front door looks like to visitors!  
• Mow the lawn & pull weeds.
• Clean up pet droppings; toys and other items that accumulate in the yard. 
• Rearrange the patio furniture.
• Add potted plants to the porch or deck.  Red flowers create a welcoming feel.

Enjoy the wonderful weather! 

Helping you find your home is our goal; getting you through the process is our expertise,

Reechia & Keith Powell

Plano Texas Real Estate