How to spot a truly clean home before signing the lease or closing the deal

When you're preparing to rent or buy a property, it's easy to get caught up in square footage, layout, or neighborhood appeal. However, one often-overlooked factor is just as important: cleanliness. A home that looks tidy at first glance might still hide layers of dust, grime, or neglected maintenance. Before you commit to signing a contract, it's essential to assess whether the property has been properly cleaned and is genuinely ready for move-in. Knowing what details to look for can save you from surprises, extra cleaning costs, or even potential health concerns.

Use the following checklist during your walkthrough to evaluate the real state of the property. These often-overlooked signs reveal whether the home has been professionally cleaned—or just quickly straightened up.

Corners and Baseboards

• Look for dust or cobwebs in corners, along baseboards, and behind doors.
• These areas are frequently missed in surface-level cleaning but tell you a lot about the overall care of the space.

Bathrooms

• Check if sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers are fully disinfected—there should be no soap scum, stains, or lingering odors.
• Mirrors and fixtures should be streak-free, and tile grout should be free of mildew or residue.

Kitchen Surfaces and Appliances

• Open the fridge, oven, microwave, and cabinets—are they spotless and odor-free?
• Countertops should be grease-free, and range hoods or stovetops should not show buildup.
• Look under the sink for any signs of leaks or mold.

Floors and Carpets

• Walk barefoot in a few areas—do the floors feel clean, or dusty?
• Carpeted rooms should not have visible stains or musty smells.
• Edges along walls or under radiators should be free of debris.

Windows and Window Tracks

• Windows should be clean inside and out, with no fingerprints, streaks, or dust.
• Open them if possible—tracks and screens should not be clogged with dirt or dead insects.

Closets and Storage Spaces

• Often neglected, these areas should be vacuumed, wiped down, and odor-free.
• Check upper shelves and corners for dust buildup.
  

Vent Covers and Light Fixtures

• Dust or discoloration on air vents or ceiling fans can indicate a lack of deep cleaning.
• Light fixtures should be free of bugs, dust, and smudges.

A clean home goes far beyond appearances—it reflects how well a property has been maintained and whether it’s truly ready for you to move in. By paying close attention to overlooked areas like baseboards, appliances, and fixtures, you’ll be able to judge whether a home has undergone a proper deep cleaning or simply a quick once-over. This knowledge empowers you to ask for additional cleaning if needed or to negotiate before committing to a lease or purchase.

Don’t let surface shine distract you from deeper issues. A home that’s truly clean creates peace of mind, protects your health, and gives you a fresh start in your new space. Take the time to inspect before you invest.

Whether you're a homeowner preparing to list your property or a renter who wants a spotless space before move-in, Quintana Quality Services is here to help. Our professional team ensures every corner is deeply cleaned and move-in ready, from kitchens and bathrooms to vents, floors, and appliances.

Let us handle the details, so you can focus on your next chapter. Call us today at (205) 467-4015 to schedule a cleaning service that gives you confidence, comfort, and complete peace of mind before the keys are in your hand.