5 Ways to Prep Your Home to Be Listed

Identify Repairs and Set a Plan

Having too many noticeable quirks in your home can not only lower the value of your house but drive buyers away. Whether that be a squeaky laundry room door, an occasionally leaky dishwasher, or a furnace that hums every night. You may want to prepare to make these repairs before listing. Don’t forget any exterior problems you might notice!

Declutter and Clean

Make your home feel spacious to potential buyers when they first walk in. Most recommend removing around 50% of your items. Big selling points are open kitchens and roomy bathrooms, but avoid shoving your belongings in closets, under beds, or in the basement. Buyers will look in those nooks – instead invest in organizing bins or renting a local storage unit. After your task of decluttering is complete make sure the home is sparkling clean!

Depersonalize Your Home

Neutralizing your home can help the buyers picture themselves living there, so make sure any personalizations are tucked away. Some items to consider hiding would be family photos, anything regarding religion, or specialty collectibles. A few other tips you may want to consider are selling unwanted items, painting the walls a neutral color such as white or gray, and just simply letting go of certain things.

Make it Feel Like Home

The final step to creating a great first impression is to stage your home. If hiring a stager is out of budget, consider focusing on the top rooms buyers are attracted to – the kitchen, the primary bedroom, and bathrooms. It’s all in the details but consider updating outdated or damaged furniture or even adding pieces you don’t already have such as a patio set. If design is not your forte, ask your real estate broker for a list of recommended professional stagers.

Keep it Clean

Now that your home is ready to hit the market it’s important to stay on a regular cleaning schedule until the home is sold. Potential buyers could come the next day or consistently within the next few months. Control the clutter by not purchasing unnecessary items. Be sure to clean up the day every night to make sure your home is show ready for the next morning.