Published: November 15, 2023

11 Things to Do Before Putting Your Home on the Market

Selling a home can be a complex and emotional process. You want to ensure that your property stands out in a competitive market and fetches the best possible price. To increase your chances of a successful sale, it’s essential to make your home as appealing as possible to potential buyers. Here are 11 crucial steps to take before putting your home on the market:

1. Clean and Declutter: The first step is thoroughly cleaning your entire home and removing any clutter. A clean and organized space looks more attractive and helps potential buyers envision themselves living there.

2. Make Necessary Repairs: Fix any minor repairs, such as leaky faucets, loose doorknobs, or cracked tiles. Addressing these issues shows that your home has been well-maintained and minimizes negotiation concerns. Inspect and repair any major systems or structural elements.

3. Enhance Curb Appeal: The exterior of your home creates the first impression. Trim the lawn, freshen up the landscaping, and consider a fresh coat of paint on the front door to create an inviting entryway. A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior attracts potential buyers.

4. Neutralize Decor: Neutral colors and decor make it easier for buyers to imagine their own style in the space. Repaint bold walls in neutral tones and consider removing personal photos and quirky decorations. Aim for a cohesive and neutral color palette throughout the home.

5. Stage the Space: Hire a professional stager or rearrange furniture to optimize the flow of your home. Staging can help highlight your home’s best features and create an aspirational atmosphere. Effective staging allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

6. Depersonalize: As mentioned earlier, remove personal photos and highly individualistic decorations. This allows potential buyers to see themselves living in the space without feeling like they’re invading someone else’s home.

7. Upgrade Lighting: Good lighting can make your home appear more spacious and inviting. Replace outdated light fixtures, ensure all bulbs work, and consider using brighter LED bulbs. Strategically place lamps or accent lighting to highlight key areas and create a warm ambiance.

8. Improve Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient upgrades, such as sealing drafts, adding insulation, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, can attract eco-conscious buyers and potentially increase the value of your home.

9. Address Odors: Unpleasant odors can be a major turn-off for buyers. Ensure your home is free of strong smells, and consider using subtle air fresheners or candles before showings. Be mindful of cooking or pet odors, and aim for good ventilation to keep the air fresh.

10. Maximize Storage Space: Storage is a big selling point for many buyers. Clean out closets, cabinets, and storage areas to make them appear spacious. Consider installing closet organizers to showcase the potential of these spaces.

11. Professional Photography: High-quality photos are essential for online listings in today’s digital age. Hire a professional photographer to capture your home in its best light, both inside and out. Capture key features and unique selling points to showcase its full potential.

Preparing your home for sale can be time-consuming, but the effort you put in can pay off in a faster sale and a higher price. By following these 11 steps, you’ll be better positioned to impress potential buyers and make your home stand out in a competitive real estate market. Remember, the goal is to present a clean, well-maintained, and neutral space that allows buyers to envision themselves happily living there.

For more information, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Grand Rapids or call (616) 612-1017.