How to prepare your home before listing
Taking the time and effort to prepare and present a home in its best light prior to listing has a direct correlation with the ultimate sale price and days on market. It is crucial that a listing comes out strong and looking its best to set itself apart from other listings and to build momentum and excitement within the buyer pool.
My team and I pride ourselves on making a customized plan for each property, one that we can facilitate from start to finish along with the help of our trusted trades and services. Selling a property can be a daunting task and this is one way we are able help with the process.
Here are some of my most common suggestions.
1. Declutter
Present a clean and neutral space where Buyers can envision themselves living.
Start the packing process – pack up items that you don’t regularly use
Put away personal documents and photos
Kitchen countertops should be kept with minimal items
Bathrooms should have clear countertops, and any personal items should be stored out of sight
Put away extra shampoo bottles and soaps
Entryways should be clear – shoes, coats etc. should be put away
Office desks should be clear
2. Paint
One of the most impactful improvements you can make is a fresh coat of paint. I prefer to use light neutral colours instead of anything too bold that could cause a negative reaction for Buyers. I will give you my top colour choices and some tips and tricks for painting in my next blog post.
Brightens up any space
Provides a clean and fresh feel
Can neutralize odours
Creates a blank slate
3. Repairs and Maintenance
Outstanding maintenance items can raise red flags for potential Buyers, while walking into a property that has been maintained builds confidence.
Ensure appliances are working properly
Repair any dents and scratches on walls
Make sure all door handles are tight
Clean fireplaces
Pump septic tanks
Preform annual maintenance on water purification systems
4. Staging
Buyers need to see each space presented to its full potential and staging is the most impactful way to do so.
Emphasizes the best features in every room
Highlights the best use of the layout
Provides the subject matter for magazine worthy photos and video footage which will become paramount in the marketing and sale of the property
5. Deep Clean
The smell and cleanliness of a home is often one of the first things a potential Buyer notices.
Vacuum all carpets
Vacuum and mop all wood and tile floors
Clean fridge, oven and other appliances
Clean glass on light fixtures
Clean windows inside and out
Dust all surfaces including TVs, ceiling fans, etc.
Clean all bathrooms including tubs and any glass walls and mirrors
6. Landscape Refresh
A general garden and outdoor clean-up is always money well spent.
Mow all lawns
Sweep/blow leaves and debris off of driveway and walkways
Weed and add mulch to any gardens that need a refresh
Custom urns with seasonal flowers and greens provide a polished feel
Make sure all gates easily open and close
As part of our white glove service, my team and I can facilitate any and all of the preparation and improvements mentioned. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to see how we can help.
