So, you’re taking that big step. No matter the reason, you’ve decided to sell your home. It’s an emotional time, but setting that aside, you need to be logical and rational about the process—from choosing the right realtor (or marketing it yourself) to preparing your home to show to prospective buyers.
Let’s talk about preparation. Why? Because doing it right has two major benefits: your home will sell faster, and you’re likely to get a higher price. Here’s a list of 9 to-do’s to get started:
1. Purge, Purge, Purge
Go through each room in your house one by one. Create three piles: things to throw away, things to donate, and things to pack for your move. When deciding what to keep, consider these questions:
- Have I used or worn this in the past year?
- Can someone else use or wear this?
- Will I use or wear this in the next year?
Ask yourself if you are emotionally attached to something that really has no meaning in your current life. For example, do you still need that pressed rose, photos, and cards from your true love in high school 20 years ago? Is that part of who you are now? As you clear out old items and memories, consider this an opportunity for a fresh start—not just for your home but for your life. Whether it’s exploring new connections through lesbian dating apps or taking up a new hobby, this transition can be a catalyst for embracing the next chapter.
2. Pack and Store
Once you’ve decided what to keep, pack up items you won’t use in the next few months. Rent a storage unit to keep them out of sight—this includes items in your basement and garage. For instance, you won’t need a snowblower in May. Label all your boxes for easier organization later.
Store important documents and precious family heirlooms in a suitcase under your bed for safekeeping.
3. Declutter and Depersonalize
A cluttered home can give prospective buyers a messy impression. Remove knick-knacks, family photos, and personal items. While those artifacts make the house feel like home to you, potential buyers need to imagine it as their own space.
4. Do a Deep Cleaning
Clean every corner of your home, including the carpets, baseboards, windows, oven, fridge, cabinets, and vanities. Buyers will open closets and cabinets, so don’t neglect them.
Sparkling windows are crucial. They make rooms look larger, brighter, and more inviting, so ensure blinds and curtains are open during showings. If possible, hire a cleaning service for a thorough deep clean.
5. Refresh with Paint
Neutral tones like off-white, beige, or pale gray appeal to a broader audience and help buyers envision their style. If you have accent walls in bold colors, repaint them. Fresh paint is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make.
6. Tackle Repairs
Fix any issues, from dripping faucets to cracked foundations. These problems will come up during a home inspection, so it’s better to address them now. Consider a pre-sale inspection to identify potential issues in advance.
7. Enhance Curb Appeal
Take a critical look at your yard. Is it tidy? Does the landscaping look planned? Trim overgrown plants and add low-maintenance greenery or flowers for a fresh, attractive look.
Inspect your home’s exterior for sagging gutters, chipped paint, or damaged screens. Power-wash the siding and spruce up patios or decks with potted plants.
8. Consider Low-Cost Upgrades
Skip major remodels and opt for smaller upgrades. Replace faucets, repaint cabinets, or add a tile backsplash in the kitchen and bathrooms. Swapping out outdated blinds for contemporary designs can also modernize the space.
9. Stage Your Home
Rearrange furniture to make rooms look spacious. If certain pieces, like an overstuffed recliner, take up too much space, put them in storage. A well-staged home can increase the sale price by 10–13%. If you’re unsure how to stage effectively, hire a professional.
Final Thoughts
Selling your home requires careful planning. Use this list as a guide and don’t put your house on the market until it’s ready to impress. Do as much as you can yourself, and hire professionals for the rest. Proper preparation will ensure you get the best price and a quicker sale.
