When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. The moment your property hits the market, potential buyers begin forming opinions that can make or break a sale. That’s why preparing your home before you list is an effective way to start the process! Here are some things to do before listing your home.
Deep Clean
Before you dive into the tasks required to prepare your home for sale, it’s important to take a good look at what you’re working with — which starts with a thorough, deep cleaning. A deep clean can also help eliminate any unpleasant odors. It’s a good idea to ask a friend for an honest opinion on whether any lingering smells might turn off potential buyers. Rather than masking odors with strong candles or plug- ins, focus on eliminating the source of the smell altogether. If you have pets, make sure you pay special attention to their most commonly traveled areas.
Declutter
Buyers often struggle to imagine themselves living in a home when it’s filled with your personal belongings. Clear out items you no longer want or need — doing so will not only help your home sell faster but also make your move easier. The hardest part of decluttering is often getting started, so begin by tackling one room or even just a section of a room at a time. Shred or recycle old papers, and donate duplicate household items, outdated clothing, toys and books. Family photos or political and religious decor can make it harder for buyers to envision the space as their own. Consider storing these items until you can proudly display them in your new home.
Complete Repairs
If you have a list of projects that you’ll “do later,” later is now! Start by inspecting your home for signs of neglect, such as stained or damaged surfaces, leaky faucets, etc. Make a list of everything that needs attention, then prioritize what to address first. A Realtor can be invaluable in helping you determine which repairs are necessary and which ones you can skip.
A Fresh Coat of Paint Goes a Long Way
It’s a quick and easy way to freshen up a room! Choose a neutral color, as it makes it easier for potential buyers to envision their own furnishings meshing well with the decor.
Staging
Homes are arranged for comfortable living, but when it’s time to sell, your focus should shift to making the space appear as spacious and open as possible. This may mean removing some furniture, even if it’s not ideal, to avoid a crowded look. Try pulling furniture away from the walls to create a more open and inviting atmosphere. If you’ll be moving before the house sells, talk to your Realtor about staging suggestions.
First Impression Is Everything!
That’s why curb appeal is so important! The exterior of your home creates the first impression for buyers, so it’s essential to ensure it’s in excellent condition. Keep the siding, gutters and windows looking fresh and clean. Repair any cracks in the driveway, walkway or patio, and make sure the roof is in good shape — nothing turns buyers away faster than a leaky roof. Fix any broken pickets in your fence as well. If you can’t address these issues, be prepared for buyers to negotiate a lower price.
To capture buyers’ attention, keep walkways clear, add fresh mulch to the landscaping, place vibrant plants near the entrance, and welcome them with a colorful doormat and a freshly painted front door. These small touches help create a warm and inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.
Prepare Your Paperwork
Preparation is key to a smooth sale, so make sure all your home’s paperwork is organized and ready. Essential documents include the deed, homeowners insurance details, loan information, property tax statements, appliance warranties, title report, purchase agreement, and any other relevant property information that buyers will need.
Choose Your Realtor
There are a lot of moving parts to selling a home, so make sure you choose an experienced Realtor (or team of Realtors) who not only know real estate trends but the local area. We grew up in Midcoast Maine, and would be happy to help you sell your home! Learn more about City + Harbor Real Estate, and tell us how we can help you.
If you’re looking for more tips while preparing to list your home, download our Pre-Listing Kit and our Seller’s Guide to help you on this journey!