Selling and Decluttering – The Inside of the Fridge
Posted on February 19, 2010
Filed Under Listing and Selling Your Home, Things Buyers May Notice, Valerie Zinger
As you get closer to putting your house on the market, take some time to declutter the inside of the fridge. We all seem to keep condiments that have expired sometimes 2 – 3 years ago. There may be onions that are sprouting in the crisper and leaking sauce bottles at the back of the top shelf. In most cases, the fridge is left in the house. Buyers will want to know the condition of the fridge and will open the door to inspect the contents/capacity/condition of the appliance.
- Start by taking everything out of the fridge.
- As you remove each item, check for expiry dates and toss those items that are long past their best before dates.
- Line up the remainder on the counter. You want your fridge to look spacious. Think about getting rid of those items that you bought and have only used once and may never use again. Even if they are still ‘perfectly good’, they are taking up real estate in the fridge. Maybe you have a friend or neighbour who would love to have these items. If you have three bottle of ketchup, eliminate those that are the oldest.
- Empty the freezer at the same time and put the food that is still good in a cooler. Start defrosting the fridge (if it is old and builds up frost). If not, turn down the temperature in the freezer area so that you can wipe it clean and then reset the temperature before returning your frozen food to the unit. Do not over pack the freezer as it will look too small for Buyers.
- Wipe down every surface. Use a non-abrasive sponge and a little baking soda. If you must, a bit of dish soap with no scent is also fine. Make sure that you clean in every nook and cranny. If anything smells – old cheese, special curries, etc. remove them.
- Your crisper drawers need to be removed and washed. Only return those fruits and vegetables that are in good shape and not left to rot.
- For fun, take before and after pictures (for your own satisfaction). It will show you progress and give you a sense of accomplishment.
If you are moving with a company, it is unlikely that they will allow perishable foods. When cleaning your fridge start to think of what you need to consume now, toss or give away before you pack to leave.
This is a fussy job that should not be overlooked because Buyers will be looking inside the fridge.
Photo credit: Onion – May 3 @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/fabricio/3534037525/
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Welcome
My name is Valerie Zinger. I am a Realtor in Ottawa. I look forward to listing your property or helping you find your home.
Phone: 613-859-7759 Click here to contact Valerie by Email at:
OrganiZinger@gmail.com-
