Selling your home can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with its share of overwhelming moments and stress. Having been through this process, I can attest that careful planning and preparation are the keys to success. Our house sold in less than a week, garnered multiple offers, and even surpassed the asking price. To help you achieve a seamless and quick home-selling journey, I’ve compiled a complete checklist with all the necessary steps and tips to prepare your home for sale. Let’s dive into the details.
GET YOUR HOME READY TO SELL: PREPARE AND STAGE
1. REPAIR:
Look at every room with a critical eye, armed with a pen and notepad. Identify areas that need repair, such as changing light bulbs, fixing chipped trim paint, addressing leaky faucets, and more. Utilize the free checklist provided to keep track of repairs, including details like costs and supplies.
2. PURGE, DONATE, OR SELL:
Streamline your possessions by purging unnecessary items, donating what’s usable, and selling items you no longer need. Consider selling items on local online platforms or traditional methods like tag sales. This step benefits potential buyers and sets the stage for a fresh start in your new home.
3. DECLUTTER:
Declutter every room to create a neutral and inviting space for potential buyers. Remove personal items, limit family photos, and organize bathroom and kitchen essentials. This step allows buyers to visualize themselves in the space, enhancing the overall appeal.
4. ORGANIZE:
Invest time organizing closets and pantries, as potential buyers will likely inspect these areas. Keep clothes off the floor, use hanging shelf units if needed, and ensure everything has a designated place. This organization extends to shoes, purses, toys, and other belongings.
5. DEEP CLEAN:
Thoroughly clean your home to make a lasting impression. Daily vacuuming or sweeping, steam cleaning carpets, dusting furniture, and cleaning windows contribute to a polished and well-maintained appearance.
6. ENHANCE YOUR CURB APPEAL:
The exterior is the first thing potential buyers see. Boost your home’s curb appeal by maintaining the lawn, cleaning up debris, trimming bushes, weeding flowerbeds, laying fresh mulch, and power washing outdoor surfaces.
7. DECORATE:
Replace knickknacks with simple decorations like fresh flowers. Opt for neutral colors if repainting any rooms. Consider replacing colored towels with white or beige ones for a cohesive look.
DAILY ACTIONS BEFORE A SHOWING
Once the significant preparations are complete, daily tasks before a showing become manageable and quick.
BEDROOMS:
– Make all beds.
– Pick up anything on the floor.
BATHROOMS:
– Close the toilet seat.
– Refold towels.
– Remove anything on counters.
– Wipe counters/mirror.
KITCHEN:
– Empty the sink.
– Take out the trash.
– Remove non-essential items from counters.
– Wipe counters clean.
– Sweep/vacuum.
OTHER LIVING SPACES:
– Fold blankets and put them away.
– Fluff pillows on couches.
– Pick up anything on floors.
– Turn on a few lights.
– Secure valuables.
Choosing the right Realtor is crucial for a successful home sale. Contact Realtor Jennifer Lillie at jen@jenlillie.com or 574-286-9667 for all your South Bend area real estate needs.
Preparing your home for sale involves meticulous planning and execution. This comprehensive checklist will attract potential buyers and facilitate a smooth, stress-free selling experience.
