How to Get Your Home Ready to Sell

Preparing your home properly before listing increases its appeal, helps establish value, and attracts serious buyers. To make the best impression, see your home through a buyer’s eyes and work with a trusted salesperson who understands the importance of pre-sale preparation.

In this guide, we’ll share expert tips to help you get your home market-ready.

Do your homework

Check out the competition

It’s always good to see what else is out there. Go to open homes and compare your property with others in your area. 

Understand the market

To find out a little bit more about the market, look at sold properties, ask for a free property appraisal or speak to a salesperson. Your salesperson has local and market knowledge to help you get a good idea of what your property is worth today.

Think about what buyers want

Different people have different needs, so it’s always good idea to think about what buyers might be looking for before you start the selling process. For example, young families may prefer to have a separate bath or fenced property. As we deal with buyers on a daily basis, they will have a great idea about what buyers want.

Boost Curb Appeal: Exterior Preparation

The exterior sets the stage for buyers’ first impressions. Stand at the curb and take a critical look at your home. Does it look inviting? Avoid an uphill battle during showings and make sure buyers can imagine your house as their home.

Here’s how to enhance curb appeal:

• Mow and trim the lawn. Trim trees and bushes. Pick up trash.
• Remove toys, old furniture, and debris from the yard.
• Power wash the exterior.
• Pay particular attention to your front door, clean and repair it and replace if needed.
• Add a fresh welcome mat and check that house numbers are straight and visible
• Place a vibrant potted plant or small tree near the entrance.

Interior Preparation: Focus on Kitchens & Bathrooms

Once inside the home, how do you maintain the good vibes you generated with your pristine lawn and new welcome mat? While the whole house should be in good, clean condition, buyers pay the most attention to kitchens and bathrooms. These rooms should be spotless, updated, and inviting.

 Kitchen:

• Consider affordable upgrades like a new sink, faucet, or cabinet hardware. These can provide a great bang for buck investment.
• Ensure all appliances are in working order.
• Keep counters clear and decluttered.

Bathroom:

• Purchase fresh towels, rugs, and shower curtains. You don’t need to go overboard here (no one is going to check the thread count of your towels on a walk through), but crisp, clean, new towels help set the tone. 
• Store personal items in a bin under the sink.
• Clean thoroughly—water stains and mold can derail an otherwise great showing.

Throughout the Home:

• Remove personal items, family photos, and collectables.
• Declutter every room for a spacious feel.
•  Clean walls, baseboards, and remove scuff marks and cobwebs (old spider webs rarely scream inviting).
• Replace light bulbs and clean their fixtures.
•  Wash windows and blinds.
• Add fresh flowers before showings for a warm touch.

A Little Effort Can Lead to a Higher Sale Price

Taking intentional time to prepare your home before listing increases your chances of selling quickly and for top dollar. Smart investment in cleaning, repairs, and minor upgrades can significantly pay dividends and give extra leverage in negotiations. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have about selling your home, or anything else you may need in your home journey. We are always thrilled to help!