9 Things to Do When Preparing Your Home for Sale

Did you know that 85% of staged homes sold for up to 23% over their listing price?  

It’s true. Staging is incredibly important to get your home sold quickly and easily, but it’s not all about cosmetics. There’s much more that needs to be done to make a home “show ready” than just throwing in some stylish furniture and an accent wall. These are just the basics. 

If you are wondering what you need to do when preparing your home for sale, keep reading this short and simple guide.  

1. Clean and Declutter the Space 

The first step for selling your house is to clean your house from top to bottom. It’s best to do this with a friend or family member so that you can take care of all the little details that your partner might miss.    

You also need to declutter your home. Get rid of clothes you don’t wear, books you never read, and furniture you no longer need. This will make your place look bigger and more inviting. 

2. Stage Your Home for Sale 

Staging simply means dressing up your home so it looks the absolute best for potential buyers who come through during showings or open houses. The goal of staging is to make your home look appealing and inviting.  

If you’re selling a home with furniture, remove personal items like pictures or knickknacks that could be distracting. Instead, use neutral decorations and accessories that will appeal to the widest range of buyers. 

3. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint 

No matter what room you’re in, adding new paint is a quick and inexpensive way to transform the space. The same goes for the exterior of your home. A fresh coat of paint will help your property stand out from other homes on the market.  

If you’re considering a DIY paint job, prep the surface first. If you don’t, you risk getting uneven coverage and streaking that could lower the value of your home.  

Start by cleaning all surfaces with a degreasing cleaner and follow up with a primer for new or previously painted surfaces. If you prefer to hire a residential painter, ask for references and check them out. It’s also important to confirm that the company has liability insurance and worker compensation coverage. 

4. Fix Any Leaks or Damage 

If there are issues with plumbing, roofing, or other problems, fix them before putting the house up for sale. Even if they aren’t immediately noticeable to potential buyers, they could be a turnoff.  

It’s also a good idea to get a professional opinion on any problems that you can’t see or fix yourself. You might hire a home inspector or other expert who is familiar with selling homes. 

5. Repair Squeaky Floors or Doors 

Squeaky floors and doors can be an annoyance for homeowners who live with these sounds day after day, but they’re even more annoying for visitors during a tour of the house.  

If you have a squeaky floor or door, try to determine the cause of the problem and fix it. This can be as simple as tightening a loose screw or applying a bit of lubricant.  

If you can’t find a solution, consider having a professional come in and look. Even if it costs money to have someone fix the problem, it will be worth it if it keeps your home from being passed over during an inspection or bidding process. 

6. Clean Up the Yard 

A tip for getting your home ready to sell is to add curb appeal. 

Mow the lawn and trim bushes and trees, especially if they are overgrown or overhanging onto the property line. If the yard is in poor condition, it can be a turnoff for potential buyers who are looking for a home that needs minor work.  

If you have old or dead shrubs or bushes, consider replacing them with new ones that will flourish in your area. This is especially important if you are selling to someone who has children.  

A yard full of dead shrubs can be a safety hazard for young children and should be replaced with something more inviting and visually appealing. If you have an overgrown lawn, consider having it professionally mowed before showing your home. 

7. Clean the Windows Inside and Out 

Cleaning windows helps them reflect light better so they look brighter from the street and from inside your home. Make sure you clean windows on both sides of a double-hung window.  

Cleaning the outside of windows can be done with a soft cloth, but use water only. If you have hard water stains, use vinegar to rinse them off. 

8. Replace Worn Out Hardware 

Nothing is more unattractive than a loose door knob or broken handle. Replace them immediately if they are worn out or missing.  

If you have an old house, consider replacing the door hinges and locks with new ones. They cost little and they will make your house look brand new.  

9. Replace Old or Dirty Carpeting or Linoleum 

Carpeting can be expensive to replace, but if it is worn out and dirty, it may be time to consider replacing it.  

Even if you don’t have carpeting in every room, consider installing hardwood floors in the living areas of your home. They are easy to clean and can add a classy touch to any room.  

If you have linoleum in your kitchen or bathroom, consider replacing it with ceramic tile. It looks great and is easy to clean. 

These Tips Will Help You When You Are Preparing Your Home for Sale 

If you’ve decided to sell your home, it’s important to list it on the market when it’s in its best condition possible.  

While your home might not look perfect, there are still steps that you can take for preparing your home for sale and making the biggest impact on prospective buyers. And when the showings come pouring in, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that both you and your real estate agent are starting on the right foot. 

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