The Ultimate Checklist For Preparing Your House To Sell

As the end of 2023 is almost here, the idea of starting fresh in 2024 has never sounded better! What better way to start the new year than with a new home? With interest rates starting to drop, buyers are getting excited and becoming more and more active in their search. To help your home stand out, prepping your home before you list will make a world of difference to buyers! As a seller, the idea a preparing a home can sometimes feel overwhelming specially coming out of the holiday season. The good news is it doesn't have to be. We are here to help! We've put together a checklist to help you get started now so that you can be ready as we enter the new year!

It is important to note that while this list covers the basics of your home, every house is a bit different and may require more attention to certain areas than others. Some houses may need a good clean and others may need a few repairs. Having an experienced agent on your team is key to successfully selling your house! Before listing, your agent can help by walking through your property to note anything specific that may need to addressed. It's helpful to have a fresh pair of eyes to check for anything a buyer may notice. If you have any questions about what should or should not be addressed, always reach out to a expert!

Exterior

• Mow the lawn and trim the bushes. Pay attention to any dead or broken limbs specially during this time of year.
• Plant flowers/add potted plants to enhance visual appeal. Be sure to also remove any dead plants.
• Clean up any debris or leaves in the yard.
• Power wash the exterior of the house if needed. 
• Check fascia boards and sofit for any damage or rot.
• Check and clean door handles as well as make sure they are secure
• Consider a new welcome mat.
• Inspect the roof for any missing or damaged shingles.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts.
• Clean or consider updating window treatments for a fresh look.
• Fix any peeling paint or siding issues.
• Repair or replace any damaged fencing.

Interior

• Remove personal items like photos and sentimental pieces to help potential buyers envision themselves and their stuff in the space.
• Clear countertops and shelves. 
• Clean carpets, rugs, and floors. Don't forget the baseboards!
• Dust all surfaces, including light fixtures and ceiling fans.
• Clean windows and window treatments
• Clean and secure any loose knobs or handles
• Consider neutral paint colors to appeal to a broad audience.
• Touch up or repaint scuffed walls
• Ensure all appliances are in good working order.
• Clean and re-caulk in the bathroom if necessary.
• Ensure all plumbing fixtures are in good condition.
• Fix any leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or other minor issues.
• Check all light bulbs and replace any that are burnt out.
• Organize and declutter closets to make them appear larger.
• Check vents and be sure to replace your air filters

Bonus tips

• Hire a professional photographer to capture appealing images for online listings. 
• Gather all relevant documents, such as maintenance records and home warranties.
• Ensure a pleasant scent in the home during showings but avoid overwhelming fragrances.
• Minimize evidence of pets during showings. We love our furry friends, but keeping the smell and fur to a minimum will help keep a buyer's focus on the house.
• Secure valuables and personal items during showings.

Have questions? Don't hesitate to reach out! We are always happy to help.