Spring brings the busiest stretch of the real estate year, and it's also the season when many of us feel the urge to clean house. The trick to actually finishing is to split big jobs into small daily tasks.

Start with decluttering before you deep clean. The fewer things you own, the less you'll have to scrub and dust. Whether you're getting your home ready for the listing photographer or simply want a fresh start, this ten-day plan is a great fit, especially if you love crossing items off a daily checklist.

Kitchen

Day 1: Junk Drawers and Countertops

Nearly every kitchen has a junk drawer or two. Pull everything out, throw away what's truly junk, and organize whatever's left. Clear off the counters while you're at it.

Day 2: Pantry, Fridge, and Freezer

Go through every spot where you store food and get rid of anything expired or unwanted. Those frozen pretzels you bought ages ago? Odds are they've expired, so out they go.

Day 3: Cabinets

Thin out the extras, like giveaway cups and more plates than you'll ever use. Donate what you don't need and toss anything that's badly worn.

Living Room

Day 4: Books, Movies, and Mail

Most people don't need a shelf full of DVDs anymore. For books, movies, and that growing stack of mail, decide whether each item should be thrown out, given away, or boxed up for storage.

Day 5: Toys, Games, and Office Supplies

Gather toys and games the kids have outgrown and set them aside to donate. Once the living room is cleared, it may be a good moment to refresh the décor with some of this year's design trends that help homes sell.

Closets

Day 6: Clothing

Take everything out of the closet and off the floor so you can see exactly what you have. Then make three piles: keep, donate, and toss. Marie Kondo's KonMari approach to sorting is a helpful guide here.

Day 7: Shoes and Accessories

Work through shoes, belts, bags, hats, and the rest. Anything that doesn't fit or never gets worn can be donated or thrown away.

Bedrooms

Day 8: Nightstands and Dressers

These surfaces tend to get overlooked. Clear them off and dust them, then take a hard look at what's left. Does each item serve a purpose? Do the remotes need fresh batteries? Remove anything you don't need.

Bathrooms

Day 9: Under the Sink

This is where cleaning supplies, old lotions, and half-used shampoo bottles tend to pile up. Hold on to the products you'll really use and get rid of anything unused or expired.

Day 10: Linen Closets and Medicine Cabinets

Medications have expiration dates, so throw out old prescriptions and outdated cough syrup. Retire worn-out towels to the garage for cleaning jobs, then neatly refold the ones you're keeping.

Ready for a Spring Listing

Once you've finished all ten days, your home will be in great shape to hit the market this spring. If you're ready to sell, reach out and let's set up a time to talk.