When your home’s on the market, getting ready for showings can sometimes be a bit of a challenge, but it’s even harder when you share your home with little ones.

The trick to selling a family home is to make it appeal to buyers who have children as well as those who don’t. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your home to show with kids in tow:

Curb Appeal

Don’t leave toys, sidewalk chalk or bikes strewn outside your home as drive-by viewings can occur when you least expect it.

Depersonalize

Buyers should be able to imagine themselves living in your home, so clear the kids’ artwork off the fridge and take down photos, awards and mementos.

Play Time’s Over

Keep one box of toys on hand and pack up the rest as having too many toys lying around looks messy and can make your rooms appear smaller.

Clean Your Room!

Go through your kids’ rooms and pair down stuffed animals, trophies and toys. Any remaining items should be neatly placed up on shelves.

Behind Closed Doors

Buyers can never get enough closet space so get rid of any clothing items that your kids have outgrown or that are out of season.

Time to Grow Up

Buyers should be able to visualize your playroom as their rec room so get rid of any “kid clutter” so it’ll look large enough for their pool table.

Ready, Set, Go

Have a diaper bag that’s ready with everything you need in case you have to make a quick getaway for a last-minute showing.

Showings can occur on short notice so make sure you have a system in place that enables you to vacate your home quickly.

Keeping a home perfectly staged with little ones running around can be a challenge, but it’ll be well worth it in the end!