When planning to list your home for sale, consider soliciting advice from a real estate professional to enhance your property’s appeal. Your agent can provide valuable insights into buyer expectations in your market and price bracket. To get ahead of the game, here are 10 actionable steps you can take to prepare your home for a successful sale.
Brown and Keyes Blog Post
Prepare Your Home for Sale
10 Expert Strategies
01. Roll Out the Welcome Mat
Ensure your home’s entrance is inviting and accessible.
A fresh coat of paint on the door, a clear path to the entrance, a well-kept lawn and trimmed hedges are a good start. Add potted plants or flowers to garner street-side attention. Address any exterior blemishes, such as damaged screens, doorbells, roof tiles, shingles, or outdoor lighting, and don’t forget to replace the doormat. Remember, first impressions count.
02. Embrace Sparkle
A clean home sends the message that it’s been well-maintained.
A deep clean can score you points with buyers, who pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms. Freshly caulked and painted spaces, stain-free carpets and rugs, and well-organized cabinets and closets can help make your property more attractive. If the task seems overwhelming, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
03. Begin Packing
Overcrowded and cluttered rooms can make your home appear smaller and inhibit potential buyers’ ability to imagine living there.
Start by storing non-essential items and personal keepsakes, such as family photos. Not only does this make your home more appealing, it gives you a jump-start on your move.
04. Choose Your Paint Palette Wisely
Opt for a straightforward, high-quality paint job.
Refreshing white or beige walls, or toning down unusually bold colors can make a big difference. Opt for soothing neutral shades like taupe or soft gray. Don’t overlook the details – freshly painted trim, molding, and cabinetry can significantly lift the appearance of your home.
05. Address the Minor Details
Attend to broken or dated hardware throughout your home.
Inexpensive updates to door handles, faucets, towel bars, and curtain rods can make a surprising difference to the look and functionality of your property.
06. Illuminate With Style
Consider updating any outdated light fixtures.
Install bulbs that offer the right illumination for different areas in your home. Employ ambient lighting for a soft glow, directional or task lighting for specific areas, and accent lighting to spotlight unique features.
07. Window Dressing Counts
The right window treatments can enhance a room’s brightness and aesthetic.
They can also regulate the room’s temperature by controlling the light entry. Adjust your window treatments to complement the time of day during viewings.
08. Dress Your Tables
Add a touch of charm with fresh flowers in your kitchen or on your dining table.
Keep place settings close at hand for speedy setup before viewings. For added allure, go formal in the dining room and keep it casual in the kitchen.
09. Hide the Clutter
Keep everyday items such as children’s toys and pet accessories out of sight during viewings.
Store pet dishes, toys, crates, and children’s items in less conspicuous areas. Consider temporary storage solutions for items such as dirty laundry or kitchen sponges.
10. Backyard Matters
A neat and functional backyard can add substantial appeal.
Maintain colorful, well-tended flowers and keep the landscaping trim. Regularly clean up after your pets to ensure buyers can comfortably explore the yard.
With these expert tips from Brown and Keyes, your home will be market-ready in no time!
