The process can feel overwhelming when it’s time to sell your house. Moving alone is a significant stressor, and when you add the complexities of selling a house and purchasing a new one, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. One of the most common questions to real estate agents is, “What should I do before listing my house?” Recognizing that the details capture buyers’ attention, we’ve compiled a list of essential tasks and projects to make your home list-ready, aiming for a swift sale—potentially even over asking.
How to Prepare Your Home to Be Listed:
1. Walk Your Home Like a Buyer:
– Take a critical approach by walking through your home as if you were a potential buyer.
– Use a clipboard to jot down any negatives or distractions you notice.
– Gain objectivity by asking an honest friend or neighbor to do this for you.
– Explore model homes or other properties to bring a fresh perspective to your own.
2. Declutter and De-Personalize:
– Remove personal items to help potential buyers envision their lives in the space.
– Consider boxing up excess belongings and utilizing short-term storage to facilitate the moving process.
3. Freshen Up the Paint:
– Invest in a neutral coat of paint throughout your home, especially if you’ve recently removed decor.
– Prioritize rooms with bold or outdated paint for a cost-effective update.
4. Remove or Update Window Coverings:
– Assess drapes and blinds for age, discoloration, or damage.
– Replace outdated or heavily patterned window coverings with lighter options to enhance the space.
5. Address Any Smells:
– Eliminate odors by airing out your home, deep cleaning, and removing old or dingy items.
– Invest in non-toxic candles and air fresheners for a neutral and inviting atmosphere.
6. Fix Any Issues:
– Tackle minor repairs, such as sticky cabinet hinges or exposed wires.
– Think like an inspector and address potential concerns before a buyer’s inspection.
7. Spruce Up The Exterior:
– Boost curb appeal by cleaning up landscaping, refreshing bark, and power washing exteriors.
– Attend to broken sprinklers, clean the garage, and maintain well-groomed yards.
8. Consider Thoughtful Touches:
– Enhance staging with thoughtful decor in bathrooms, pops of color, fresh flowers, and organized spaces.
– Ensure every room is clean, bright, and emits a pleasant aroma.
Selling your home can be stressful, but these tips provide a solid starting point for preparing your home to list. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from your realtor—they’re there to help you maximize your investment and transition smoothly into your dream home.*
If you have any questions about real estate in the South Bend and Granger, Indiana, area, contact Jennifer Lillie at 574-286-9667 or jen@jenlillie.com.
