When preparing to sell a home, many people focus on things like curb appeal, staging, or fresh coats of paint. But one of the most impactful yet often overlooked factors is cleanliness.

Homes that are professionally cleaned before listing can sell for 6-10% more than those that aren’t. I saw this firsthand with a client, Sarah, who was preparing to sell her 3-bedroom home. She had made all the typical improvements — new countertops, fresh paint, and a few updated fixtures. But when I asked her if she’d considered a professional deep clean, she was hesitant. She thought it might not make a significant difference.

After a thorough cleaning — focusing on baseboards, windows, and those hard-to-reach areas that buyers notice — the transformation was incredible. Not only did the home look brighter and more inviting, but it felt fresh, too. The result? Sarah's home sold for 8% above asking in just 5 days, and the agent credited the pristine condition for helping buyers imagine themselves living there.

I know from experience that a clean home makes a lasting impression — and in real estate, that impression can mean a much higher sale price.

So next time you hear someone talking about selling their home, ask them: ‘Have you thought about having the home professionally cleaned before listing?’ It’s one of the easiest ways to boost its value