M
oving out of your home can be a daunting task, but one thing to consider is who's responsible for cleaning it. Is it expected or required? Who should pay? We spoke with real estate experts to find out the best practices.

    Check Your Contract

    Your sales contract may specify cleaning requirements, so it's essential to review it carefully. Most contracts include boilerplate language stating that buyers must clean and remove all belongings before closing. Renters often have similar requirements in their leases.

    "It's more of a courtesy to the buyer," says Kam Zinsser, a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Senter Realtors. "When purchasing a home, most contracts stipulate that the premises be broom-swept."

    Benefits of Cleaning a Home Before Moving

    Cleaning your home can make all the difference in a sale. Broker Svetlana Choi of Coldwell Banker Warburg shares an example where a seller's decision to hire a cleaning service helped seal the deal.

    "A cleaner home helps with a smoother walk-through and sets a positive tone for the closing process," says Zinsser.

    What You Should Clean When Selling a Home

    Focus on main living areas first, such as living rooms and bedrooms. Don't forget about often-overlooked spaces like inside your fridge, oven, and microwave. Wipe down baseboards, trims, ceiling fans, and vent covers to make a good impression.

    Prioritizing these areas makes a difference, says Zinsser. "As the homeowner, cleaning the home and paying attention to details is largely a goodwill gesture."

    What You Should Clean When Leaving an Apartment

    Renters typically have stricter cleaning requirements outlined in their lease agreements. They must leave the space empty and broom-cleaned or swept.

    "For renters, legal cleaning obligations are usually included in the lease agreement," says Zinsser. "It will include an outline of the cleaning expectations and security deposit rules."

    Who Should Pay for Cleaning When Selling a Home

    If cleaning is not specified in your contract, you can either do it yourself or hire a professional cleaning service. Get quotes from multiple companies to find the best fit.

    "When hiring a cleaning service, be very clear on the level of cleanliness that will be provided," says Choi. "A deep clean is much more thorough than simply cleaning surfaces."

    Who Should Pay for Cleaning When Leaving a Rental

    Renters typically clean their space themselves before moving out and use their security deposit to cover any additional costs. However, if you leave your apartment in worse shape than when you moved in, it may be worth paying for professional cleaning yourself.

    "It's essential to review your lease agreement and leave the property in good shape," says Gerard Splendore, a licensed real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Warburg. "Your landlord can write you a letter or recommendation that will help in your next rental experience."