Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure for more info.
Selling your home can feel like running a marathon while juggling flaming torches. It’s no easy feat, but with the right preparation, you can transform your humble abode into a buyer’s dream. We’ve compiled a list of six essential steps to help you prepare your home for sale. Let’s dive in!
In This Post:
Home Preparation Checklist
| Step | Action Items |
|---|---|
| Declutter | – Attack the Closets – Clear Countertops – Tidy Up the Garage |
| Clean | – Scrub Everything – Eliminate Odors – Windows and Mirrors |
| Stage | – Neutralize the Space – Highlight Key Features – Add Fresh Touches |
| Photograph | – Hire a Pro – Lighting Matters – Showcase Each Room |
| Curb Appeal | – Landscaping – Front Door – Clean Exterior |
| Small Upgrades | – Update Fixtures – Fresh Paint – Minor Repairs |
1. Declutter Like You’re Marie Kondo
The first step to prepping your home is to declutter. Channel your inner Marie Kondo and purge anything that doesn’t spark joy. Buyers want to envision themselves living in your space, not navigating through your collection of vintage Beanie Babies.
- Attack the Closets: Potential buyers will open closets to assess storage space. Make sure they’re not greeted by an avalanche of old coats.
- Clear Countertops: In the kitchen and bathrooms, clear off the counters. This makes the space look bigger and more inviting.
- Tidy Up the Garage: Don’t forget the garage. Organize tools, sports equipment, and those boxes you haven’t opened since your last move.
2. Clean Until It Shines
Next up, cleaning. And we mean deep cleaning. Your house should be so spotless that your mother-in-law would be impressed.
- Scrub Everything: From the baseboards to the ceiling fans, every inch of your home should be clean.
- Eliminate Odors: Pay special attention to areas that might hold odors, like the kitchen, bathrooms, and pet areas.
- Windows and Mirrors: Make sure all windows and mirrors are streak-free to let in as much light as possible and make spaces look bigger.
3. Master the Art of Staging
Staging your home can be a game-changer. You want potential buyers to walk in and feel at home, not like they’ve stumbled into a mismatched furniture convention.
- Neutralize the Space: Use neutral colors and décor to appeal to the widest range of buyers.
- Highlight Key Features: Arrange furniture to highlight the best features of each room, like a cozy fireplace or a spacious bay window.
- Add Fresh Touches: Fresh flowers, new towels in the bathroom, and a bowl of fruit on the kitchen counter can make a big impact.
4. Snap Stunning Photos
A home with professional photos sells 32% faster so hiring a professional photograph is one of the smartest things you can do when you are preparing to sell your home. Once your home is looking its best, it’s time to capture it in all its glory. Professional photos are a must.
- Hire a Pro: A professional photographer knows how to make your home look like a million bucks.
- Lighting Matters: Make sure the photos are taken during the day with plenty of natural light.
- Showcase Each Room: Include photos of every room, highlighting special features and ensuring the space looks inviting.
5. Amp Up the Curb Appeal
If you’ve wondered “what’s the fastest way to sell my house?” The answer is adding curb appeal. First impressions are crucial. Your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers see, so make sure it’s love at first sight.
- Landscaping: Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and plant some flowers.
- Front Door: Give your front door a fresh coat of paint and add a new welcome mat.
- Clean Exterior: Power wash the siding, clean the gutters, and make sure all windows are sparkling.
6. Consider Small Upgrades
You don’t need to go full HGTV, but a few strategic upgrades can make your home more appealing.
- Update Fixtures: Swap out old light fixtures, cabinet handles, and faucets for more modern options.
- Fresh Paint: A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a room. Stick to neutral colors to appeal to a broader audience.
- Minor Repairs: Fix that leaky faucet, replace cracked tiles, and make sure everything is in working order.
By following these six steps, you’ll be well on your way to selling your home quickly and for the best possible price. Remember, the goal is to make buyers feel like they’ve found their perfect home from the moment they walk through the door. Now go forth and conquer the real estate market.
