Getting ready to sell your home? It’s not as simple as planting a “For Sale” sign on your lawn and snapping a few pictures. To attract buyers and maximize your return, you’ll need to invest some time and effort into getting your property in top shape. Whether it’s small repairs or enhancing curb appeal, this checklist will guide you through the necessary steps to make your home stand out.
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Hire a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent
Selling a home without an experienced real estate agent can be tempting, but it’s rarely a good idea. A qualified agent will know your local market, help you price your home competitively, and guide you through negotiations. Be sure to interview a few agents to find someone who understands your goals and can sell your home for top dollar.
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Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. Potential buyers often judge a home by its exterior, so make sure yours is inviting. Simple touches like planting flowers, mowing the lawn, and repainting your front door can make a world of difference. A real estate agent can offer advice on what works best in your neighbourhood.
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Declutter Your Space
Clear out excess items from your home, both in visible areas and behind closed doors. Buyers want to see a home with plenty of space for their belongings, not one overflowing with clutter. Donate, store, or pack up unnecessary items to make your home feel spacious and inviting.
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Depersonalize and Neutralize
Remove personal items, like family photos and bold artwork, to help buyers imagine themselves living in your home. Consider repainting walls in neutral colours to create a blank canvas that appeals to a broad range of tastes.
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Tackle Minor Repairs
Fix any small issues, such as scuff marks on walls, loose handles, or broken lightbulbs. These minor repairs can significantly impact a buyer’s perception of your home. You want buyers to feel like your house is well-maintained and ready for them to move in.
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Clean Thoroughly
A deep clean is a must before showing your home. Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. Your home should look as spotless as it does in professional listing photos, as cleanliness leaves a lasting impression on potential buyers.
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Add a Touch of Nature
Incorporating some greenery, like fresh plants or flowers, can brighten up your home and make it feel more welcoming. A simple bouquet on the dining table or a few potted plants in the living room can enhance your space.
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Neutralize Odours
Odours can be a major turn-off for buyers. Have an unbiased third party come in to detect any unpleasant smells from pets or cooking. If needed, do a deep clean to eliminate them, as masking with air fresheners may not be effective.
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Safeguard Valuables
Make sure personal valuables, such as jewelry and artwork, are either locked away or stored off-site. Open houses and showings bring in many visitors, and it’s best to take precautions to protect your belongings.
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Touch Up Paint and Scuff Marks
Even if you’re not doing a full repaint, touching up baseboards, walls, and doors can refresh your home’s appearance. Buyers will notice the difference and appreciate the care you’ve put into maintaining the property.
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Fix Loose Handles and Minor Issues
Don’t overlook small repairs, like fixing a loose doorknob or squeaky hinge. Buyers might assume that small visible issues mean there are bigger problems lurking in your home.
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Consider Professional Staging
If your home feels dated or doesn’t show well, staging might be worth the investment. A professional stager can rearrange furniture or suggest modern pieces to make your home more appealing to buyers, helping you sell faster and potentially for a higher price.
By following this checklist, you’ll set yourself up for a successful home sale. A little preparation can go a long way in attracting the right buyers and securing the best offer.