Prepare your Home to Sell
A COMPREHENSIVE CHECKLIST
Declutter and Depersonalize
- Remove Personal Items: Take down family photos, personal collections, and any unique decorations.
- Clear Out Clutter: Go through each room and remove unnecessary items. Consider renting a storage unit for excess furniture and belongings.
- Organize Closets and Cabinets: Buyers will peek inside these spaces, so make sure they're neat and organized.
Deep Clean
- Clean Every Surface: Dust, vacuum, mop, and scrub all surfaces, including floors, walls, windows, and baseboards.
- Focus on Kitchens and Bathrooms: Ensure these areas are spotless. Clean grout, polish faucets, and make sure appliances shine.
- Eliminate Odors: Address any lingering smells, such as pet odors, smoke, or mustiness.
Repairs and Maintenance
- Fix Minor Issues: Patch holes in walls, fix leaky faucets, and repair any broken fixtures.
- Update Lighting: Replace outdated or burnt-out light bulbs. Consider adding brighter lights to make spaces appear larger.
- HVAC and Plumbing: Ensure the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are in working order. Address any plumbing issues.
Curb Appeals
- Landscape the Yard: Mow the lawn, trim bushes, weed flower beds, and add fresh mulch. Consider planting seasonal flowers for a pop of color.
- Clean and Repair Exterior: Power wash the exterior, clean the gutters, and touch up paint as needed.
- Front Door and Entryway: Paint or polish the front door, replace worn-out welcome mats, and ensure the entryway is inviting.
Stage your Home
- Arrange Furniture: Create inviting spaces by arranging furniture to highlight the room’s best features.
- Add Neutral Decor: Use neutral colors and simple decor to appeal to a broader range of buyers.
- Enhance with Lighting: Open curtains, blinds, and use lamps to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Professional Touches
- Hire a Professional Photographer: High-quality photos are essential for online listings.
- Consider Professional Staging: If needed, hire a professional to stage your home for maximum appeal.
- Get a Pre-Sale Home Inspection: Identify potential issues that buyers might bring up, and address them beforehand.
Documents and Disclosures
- Gather Necessary Paperwork: Collect warranties, manuals, and documents related to major appliances and systems.
- Prepare Disclosures: Be ready to disclose any known issues with the property as required by law.
Final Touches
- Freshen Up: Add fresh flowers, scented candles, or baked goods to make the home feel welcoming.
- Secure Valuables: Lock up or remove any valuables or personal information during showings.
- Plan for Showings: Create a plan for showings that includes keeping the home clean and ready at all times.