Checklist to help you prepare your home for sale
Here’s a checklist to help you prepare your home for sale:
- Declutter and Depersonalize:
- Remove personal items like family photos and personalized decor.
- Declutter surfaces and create a clean, open space.
- Deep Clean:
- Clean carpets, floors, windows, and all surfaces.
- Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms.
- Make Necessary Repairs:
- Fix any visible issues like leaky faucets, broken doorknobs, or chipped paint.
- Paint and Refresh:
- Consider a fresh coat of paint in neutral colours to brighten up the space.
- Replace any worn or outdated fixtures.
- Curb Appeal:
- Enhance the exterior’s attractiveness with well-maintained landscaping and a well-kept lawn.
- Paint or clean the front door and make sure the entrance is inviting.
- Address Odors:
- Eliminate any unpleasant odours by thoroughly cleaning, using air fresheners, or addressing the source. Remove all pet litter, toys etc.
- Lighting:
- Ensure all light fixtures are working and consider adding additional lighting for brightness.
- Staging:
- Arrange furniture and decor to highlight the best features of each room.
- Use neutral, inviting elements to appeal to a wide range of potential buyers.
- Organize Storage Spaces:
- Tidy up closets, cabinets, and storage areas to showcase their full potential.
- Maximize Natural Light:
- Open blinds and curtains to allow natural light to fill the rooms.
- Consider Professional Photography:
- Hire a professional photographer to capture high-quality images for your listing.
- Set the Right Temperature:
- Ensure the home is comfortable during showings, especially in extreme weather conditions.
- Documents and Disclosures:
- Gather all necessary documents, including deeds, survey reports, floor plans, and any relevant disclosures.
- Marketing Materials:
- Assist your agent by highlighting the property’s features.
- Security and Privacy:
- Remove or secure any valuable or personal items during showings.
- Maintain Cleanliness Throughout the Selling Process:
- Regularly clean and tidy the property for scheduled showings.
- Final Walkthrough:
- Before listing, do a final walkthrough to ensure everything is in order.
Remember, first impressions matter, so taking the time to prepare your home can greatly impact its appeal to potential buyers. Each step on this checklist aims to present your property in the best possible light and increase its marketability.