Planning to Sell your Home this Year?

Dated: January 22 2024

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Your home is a big financial asset and no matter how you go about selling your home, there's always some level of planning and preparation involved.  Here are some tips to help you get the most out of the sale:

1.  Clean and Declutter

  • Clean your home thoroughly, paying special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms.  Have the carpets cleaned, clean all the windows, and consider power-washing the exterior if needed.
  • Start deciding what you want to keep out, pack up and store, toss and donate.
  • Declutter living spaces to make rooms feel more spacious, and start packing!  Take out any unnecessary furniture to make rooms feel larger (rent a cheap storage unit if needed).
  • Buyers are often interested in storage space, so don’t just throw everything in the closets!  Keep closets and storage areas organized.

2.  Enhance the Curb Appeal 

  • First impressions matter.  Improve the exterior by maintaining the lawn, trimming bushes, and adding some potted flowers or plants.  
  • Paint the front door if needed, and keep the exterior entry clean and tidy.
  • Powerwash the exterior or consider painting.  

3.  Perform Needed Repairs and Maintenance  

  • Fix any known issues, such as leaky faucets, peeling paint, or broken fixtures.
  • Ensure all major appliances are functioning properly and that all light switches and plugs are working. 
  • Have your furnace cleaned and service.

4.  Neutralize and Depersonalize 

  • Neutral colors on walls make it easier for potential buyers to envision their own style.  Even if the walls are neutral, a new coat of paint can really freshen up the house. 
  • Remove personal items and family photos to allow buyers to imagine themselves in the space.

5.  Get Your Paperwork in Order

  • Gather deeds, surveys, warranties, property tax bills, mortgage payoff amounts. 
  • New buyers may ask for average utility costs (especially if they are moving from out of town), so have this information handy as well.

6.  Consider Staging and Lighting  

  • Consider staging key rooms to showcase the home's potential. 
  • Ensure that all rooms are well-lit. Consider replacing old bulbs and adding additional lighting if needed.

7.  Start Interviewing Agents

  • Interview a few at your house.  Do a thorough walk-through (inside and outside) with each of them.  Take notes on recommendations for staging, maintenance or repairs the agents may have. 
  • Work with your agent to develop a strong marketing plan, including professional photos and social media promotion.
  • If your timeframe is flexible, find out when the ideal time to sell has been in your area to get the best price.  Is it a buyer’s market or seller’s market?

8.  Know the Market and Set the Right List Price 

  • Work with your real estate agent to set a competitive and realistic asking price based on recent, similar market sales.
  • Make sure you know all costs associated with selling your home - from agent commission to title work and closing fees (your agent should know this).

Each home is unique, and these tips can be adjusted based on your specific property and market conditions.  Working closely with your real estate agent will help tailor these suggestions to best suit your situation.   

Blog author image

Amy Scantlin

I love helping people navigate through the home sales process as seamlessly as possible, and I will work hard to advocate on your behalf through every step of the way.  From understanding the cur....

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