Thinking about selling your home this year? Preparing it to look its absolute best is key to ensuring a quick sale at top dollar. Buyers are drawn to homes that feel like a perfectly staged display, not the everyday lived-in chaos we all experience. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’ve put together a list of quick and easy steps to help you get your home market-ready in no time. Let’s get started!
Declutter
When preparing your home for sale, start by decluttering and organizing. Tidy cupboards, closets, and the garage to make these spaces appear larger and highlight the available storage. A good rule of thumb: if you haven’t used it in a year, you likely don’t need it. Consider donating quality items to a local charity.
Clear kitchen and bathroom counters, and remove magnets, calendars, and towels from appliances. Pack away personal photos and valuables to create a clean, neutral feel that keeps the focus on the home, not your belongings.
If you have pets, hide their beds, bowls, and toys, as not all buyers are pet lovers. For families, designate specific areas for kids’ toys and books to keep things tidy.
Buyers need to visualize themselves in your home, not you. Keeping your space neutral also helps maintain privacy when it’s time to negotiate.
Smells
A fresh-smelling home is often overlooked but incredibly important. During colder months, closed windows can trap stale air, food, or pet odors. While you may not notice, buyers often do—and unpleasant smells can make them spend less time in your home.
The solution? Open windows to let in fresh air and light a subtle yet fragrant candle before showings. Alternatively, try a homemade rosemary and orange stovetop air freshener—recipe here!
Lighting
Proper lighting is essential, especially in rooms with limited natural light. Poor lighting can make spaces feel smaller and gloomy. Replace low-voltage bulbs with brighter options, and ensure all lights are working properly. A room with multiple burnt-out bulbs can make buyers wonder if there’s an electrical issue—or if the homeowners simply neglected to replace them. Most of the time, it’s the latter!
Temperature
Ensuring your home is at a comfortable temperature for the season is crucial. A space that’s too hot in summer or too cold in winter can quickly turn buyers off and shorten their visit. By creating a cozy, inviting environment, you encourage buyers to linger longer, giving them the chance to truly fall in love with your home—rather than rushing to leave.
Curb Appeal
The exterior is the first thing buyers see, and it sets the tone for the rest of the showing. Simple fixes like mowing the lawn, raking leaves, pulling weeds, and planting flowers can make a big impact. For larger trees, hire a professional to trim them.
Don’t forget decks, patios, balconies, and walkways—give them a thorough wash or powerwash to remove mildew, which is both unsightly and slippery. Good curb appeal not only looks inviting but also signals to buyers that the home is well-maintained.
First impressions matter, and small efforts in cleaning, organizing, and maintaining your home can make a big difference. By creating a welcoming and well-presented space, you’ll help buyers feel at home and maximize your chances of a successful sale.
If you’re thinking about listing your home, download our Home Seller’s Guide for more details on the selling process and an extensive “To-Do List” to get your home ready for the market
