Q: Why should we have to clean out the bathroom closets, drawers and cabinets? We still need to live here. Buyers should understand that.

A: You can't sell your house the way you live in it.

When you sell your house, the bathroom goes with it, as well as the closets, drawers and cabinets. Buyers will be looking into these areas to see how big they are and what condition they are in. If your linen closet, draws and cabinets are stuffed with everything but the kitchen sink, then it gives the buyers the impression that you don't have enough room for your stuff so maybe they won't have enough room for theirs.

You need to de-clutter and de-personalize your bathroom. Here are the big "No-Nos:"

• NO bathroom spray on the back toilet
• NO rug toilet lid covers or tank covers
• NO scattered rugs in front of sink, toilet and tub -- it makes the bathroom look small
• NO wall to wall carpeting in a bathroom. It's very unsanitary and a big turn-off to buyers
• NO soft-covered toilet seats (especially the decorated ones)
• NO toothbrushes, toothpaste, Waterpiks or deodorants on the counter
• NO plungers or exposed toilet brushes
• NO kitty litter boxes
• NO "personals" for everyone to see. You'd be surprised at what people leave out.
• NO wallpaper or wallpaper borders
• NO scales
• NO laundry baskets
• NO toys and soggy washcloths in the tub
• NO rusted metal toiletry hanger in shower

The best thing to do is clear off the counter and top of toilet completely. Now all you need is a nice matching cup, soap dispenser, wastepaper basket and tissue box. The tissue box can go on the back of the toilet. Wash down the counters, mirrors, lights, cabinets, faucets, sinks, toilet, tub, shower, floor, windows, closet, doors, trim, walls and light switches. Everything should be "Q-Tip clean." Replace the cabinet knobs, faucets and lights if needed with antique oil bronze, satin nickel or chrome. Brass is out.

Coordinate all towels with one or two colors. Fold in thirds and hang neatly every day. Don't let anyone use them -- these are for company. Invest in a new shower curtain with new curtain liner and hooks. White is fresh looking. Clear everything out of the shower and tub except for one soap, shampoo and conditioner.

Most tubs and showers need a fresh new bead of silicone caulking around the edges to make them look neat and clean. Get rid of mold and stains throughout the bathroom, especially in the shower and bathtub area. If you have the extra money, get rid of the outdated blue, pink, brown, yellow, etc. fixtures -- white toilet, tub and sinks are your best bet.

And most important: When you leave the house for a showing, don't forget to put the toilet seat down!

Submitted by Karen Cormier, broker and Realtor member of the Greater Manchester/Nashua Board of Realtors.