Top 10 End of Lease Cleaning Tips Real Estate Agents Look For in Sydney
Moving out of a rental property can be stressful enough without having to worry about what your real estate agent will say during the final inspection. If you're renting in Sydney, you probably already know that getting your full bond back total depends on the cleanliness of your property.
But what exactly are this real estate agents looking for during that final check?
At CleanEffortlessly, we’ve helped hundreds of tenants across Sydney to get their bond back with zero stress. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 things real estate agents actually look for when it comes to end of lease cleaning.
1. Kitchen Cleanliness: Appliances, Cupboards & Surfaces
Why it matters: The kitchen is often the most heavily used and closely inspected area.
What agents check:
Inside and outside of all cupboards and drawers
Oven, stovetop and rangehood (including filters)
Benchtops and splashbacks
Sink and tap fixtures
Floors and skirting boards
Tips: Use a degreaser on built-up grime, and always clean behind appliances if they’re movable.
2. Bathroom and Laundry Hygiene
Why it matters: Bathrooms can collect soap scum, moulds, hairs and bacteria if not regularly deep cleaned.
What agents check:
Shower screens and tiles
Vanity units and mirrors
Toilet (inside and out)
Grout and taps
Laundry sink and cabinetry
Tips: Pay special attention to mould, real estate agents are quick to notice it.
3. Floors: Vacuumed, Mopped, and Spot-Free
Why it matters: Dirty floors immediately give the impression of an unclean home. This is First to spot at.
What agents check:
All carpeted areas vacuumed or not
Hard floors mopped and free of marks or dirts
Corners and under furniture cleaned
Tips: Consider professional carpet steam cleaning for stains or pet smells.
4. Walls and Skirting Boards
Why it matters: Scuff marks and fingerprints on walls are common but easily fixed.
What agents check:
Wall stains, marks and dust
Skirting boards and edges
Tips: Use a damp microfiber cloth to gently clean walls without damaging paint.
5. Windows and Window Tracks
Why it matters: Windows let in light—and any dirt or grime is very visible.
What agents check:
Inside glass panels wiped
Window sills and tracks cleared of debris
Curtains and blinds dusted
Tips: A toothbrush works wonders for tight corners in window tracks.
6. Built-in Wardrobes and Storage Areas
Why it matters: Forgotten spaces like cupboards often collect dust and cobwebs.
What agents check:
Wardrobe interiors and mirrors
Shelves and storage compartments
Tips: Leave cupboards open after cleaning so the agent knows they’ve been done.
7. Outdoor Areas: Balcony, Garage & Garden
Why it matters: Outdoor spaces are part of the rental and must be returned in good condition.
What agents check:
Balcony glass, railings and flooring
Garage swept and tidy
Garden beds weeded and lawns trimmed
Tips: Remove any cobwebs and make sure bins are empty and clean.
8. Light Fittings, Switches & Power Points
Why it matters: These are often overlooked but easy to clean.
What agents check:
Dust and bugs in light fittings
Clean switches and power points (no finger marks)
Tips: Turn off power before cleaning switches for safety.
9. High-Touch Surfaces
Why it matters: These areas gather grime and bacteria over time.
What agents check:
Door handles
Stair railings
Remote controls and intercom panels
Tips: Disinfectant wipes make this a quick job.
10. Odour and Overall Presentation
Why it matters: First impressions count.
What agents check:
Freshness of air inside
Lingering food, smoke or pet odours
General appearance and feel of the property
Tips: Open windows before the inspection and use a light, neutral air freshener.
Bonus Tip: Stick to a Checklist
At CleanEffortlessly, we use a comprehensive checklist that aligns with real estate agent expectations across Sydney. Check our full checklist on our end of lease cleaning service page
Final Thoughts
Getting your bond back doesn’t have to be a headache. By focusing on these 10 key areas, you can make sure your end of lease cleaning meets the expectations of even the pickiest agent.
Need help? Book your end of lease clean with CleanEffortlessly and leave the stress to us. We’re local, experienced, and trusted across Sydney.
