The Ultimate Home-Selling Checklist: Get Your Home Market-Ready
Selling your home is an exciting step, but before you list it, preparation is key to attracting buyers and getting top dollar. A well-prepared home sells faster and often at a higher price.
Use this ultimate home-selling checklist to ensure your home is clean, well-maintained, and ready to impress potential buyers from day one!
1. Declutter & Depersonalize
📌 Buyers need to visualize themselves in your home, so less is more! 95% of buyers are searching online for homes right now! That means photos are one of the most important steps in this process!
✅ Remove excess furniture to create an open feel
✅ Pack away family photos & personal items
✅ Clear countertops, shelves, and closets
✅ Donate or store non-essential items
🚨 Pro Tip: A clutter-free home looks bigger and more inviting in listing photos!
2. Deep Clean Everything
A spotless home gives buyers the impression it’s well cared for. Every impression matters!
✅ Scrub floors, baseboards, and walls
✅ Clean windows inside & out for maximum natural light
✅ Dust all surfaces, including ceiling fans & vents
✅ Freshen up carpets or consider professional cleaning
✅ Eliminate pet odors and lingering smells
🚨 Pro Tip: Pay extra attention to kitchens and bathrooms—buyers inspect these areas closely!
3. Make Minor Repairs & Updates
Small upgrades can make a big impact on how buyers perceive your home. This will absolutely be worth the time and costs!
✅ Fix leaky faucets, running toilets & squeaky doors
✅ Patch up nail holes and touch up paint
✅ Replace burnt-out lightbulbs with bright, neutral lighting
✅ Repair loose cabinet handles, doorknobs & hinges
✅ Make sure all appliances are working properly
🚨 Pro Tip: A fresh coat of neutral paint makes rooms feel bigger and more inviting!
4. Boost Curb Appeal
First impressions start at the curb—buyers often decide within seconds if they like a home!
✅ Mow the lawn & trim overgrown bushes
✅ Add fresh mulch or flowers for a welcoming touch
✅ Clean the front door & replace a worn-out welcome mat
✅ Power wash the driveway & sidewalks
✅ Ensure house numbers are visible and stylish
🚨 Pro Tip: A new coat of paint on the front door can make your home stand out!
5. Stage for Success
Staging helps buyers see the potential in each space.
✅ Arrange furniture to maximize space and flow
✅ Use light, airy curtains to brighten rooms
✅ Add fresh flowers or plants for warmth
✅ Set the dining table for a welcoming feel
✅ Keep décor neutral and simple
🚨 Pro Tip: Stage key areas—living room, kitchen, master bedroom & bathrooms—these make the biggest impact!
6. Perfect Your Listing Photos
Your online listing is the first place most buyers will see your home—make it count!
✅ Hire a professional photographer (or use high-quality lighting and angles)
✅ Ensure rooms are well-lit and clutter-free before photos
✅ Capture key selling points (kitchen, living spaces, backyard, etc.)
✅ Take exterior shots in good weather for maximum appeal
🚨 Pro Tip: Consider drone photography for larger properties to highlight land and surroundings!
7. Make Your Home Show-Ready
Once your home is listed, you’ll need to keep it in showroom condition.
✅ Keep countertops clear & surfaces dust-free
✅ Take out the trash daily to avoid odors
✅ Leave the house before showings for a stress-free experience
✅ Ensure all lights are on & blinds are open for brightness
✅ Lock up valuables & personal items
🚨 Pro Tip: Create a “last-minute showing checklist” to do a quick clean-up before buyers arrive!
8. Price It Right & Market Smart
Setting the right price is critical—too high and it sits, too low and you lose value.
✅ Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) from a real estate agent
✅ Price competitively based on similar sold homes in your area
✅ Consider strategic pricing (e.g., listing at $299,900 vs. $300,000)
✅ Use social media, email marketing & word-of-mouth to spread the word
🚨 Pro Tip: A well-priced home attracts multiple offers, giving you stronger negotiation power!
9. Prepare for the Inspection & Closing
Once you accept an offer, there are a few final steps to close the deal!
✅ Gather necessary documents (warranty info, HOA details, etc.)
✅ Make sure major systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) are in good shape
✅ Address any repairs requested by the buyer (if negotiated)
✅ Plan your move-out date and coordinate with your next home
🚨 Pro Tip: Being proactive about inspection repairs can prevent last-minute deal breakers!
Sell Faster & for More!
Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful! By following this checklist, you’ll ensure your home stands out and attracts serious buyers.
📞 Thinking of selling? I can help! Contact me for a free home value report & expert guidance to get the best price for your home!
