Prepare Your Home
Simple steps that help your home stand out — and sell for more.
First Impressions
Curb Appeal
Lawn & Landscaping
- Mow, edge, and trim bushes
- Weed and add fresh mulch
- Add colorful flowers or potted plants
- Replace dead or dying plants
Front Door & Entry
- Clean or repaint the front door
- Polish or update hardware
- Add a welcome mat and potted plants
- Make sure the porch light works
Driveway & Garage
- Sweep or power wash the driveway
- Organize the garage
- Touch up the garage door if needed
- Check driveway and garage lighting
Smart Updates
Get Top Dollar
Today's buyers want move-in ready. Start with repairs, then focus on updates with the best return.
Higher-Return Projects
- Minor kitchen updates — paint or reface cabinets, new hardware, lighting
- Bathroom refresh — regrout, new faucets, fresh paint
- Curb appeal — landscaping, power washing, a fresh front door
- Energy efficiency — seal drafts, add insulation
- Replace worn flooring and burned-out bulbs
Think Twice About
- Luxury finishes in a modestly priced neighborhood
- Highly personalized upgrades
- Major renovations in a cooling market
- Over-improving for the neighborhood
Tip
Before you spend money on projects, let's walk through the home together. I'll tell you what buyers in your area actually care about — and what you can skip.
Before We List
Pre-Listing Checklist
Throughout the Home
- Declutter and remove extra furniture
- Store personal photos and valuables
- Deep clean and neutralize odors
- Fix minor issues and touch up paint
- Make sure every light works
Kitchen
- Clean appliances inside and out
- Clear and organize counters
- Declutter cabinets and pantry
- Shine the sink and fixtures
Bathrooms
- Deep clean surfaces, grout, and caulk
- Put away toiletries
- Hang fresh, matching towels
- Clean mirrors and polish fixtures
Bedrooms & Living Areas
- Make beds neatly
- Organize closets (buyers will peek!)
- Clear nightstands and dressers
- Hide cords and cables
- Clean windows and open blinds
Lights, Camera
Photo Day & Showings
Photo Day
- Clear kitchen counters (one stylish item is fine)
- Toilet lids down, towels neatly hung
- Fluff pillows and fold throws
- Move cars out of the driveway
- Hide trash cans and hoses
- Turn on every light and open the blinds
Before Each Showing
- Quick clean and declutter
- Open blinds for natural light
- Set a comfortable temperature
- Secure valuables and medications
- Make sure it smells fresh
During Showings
- Step out so buyers can relax and look
- Take pets with you if possible
- Leave lights on
- Turn off music and the TV
I use a secure lockbox and I'm notified every time it's opened, so you always know who's been in your home. You'll get buyer feedback after every showing.
Moving Day
Before You Hand Over the Keys
Wrap Up
- Clear out all belongings — check every drawer and closet
- Clean appliances, cabinets, and the garage
- Leave keys, remotes, and openers in a kitchen drawer
- Leave manuals and warranties for the new owner
Accounts & Paperwork
- Schedule utility shut-off or transfer
- Cancel homeowners insurance after the sale closes
- File a change of address with the post office
- Store your closing documents somewhere safe
Lock Up
- Close blinds and lock windows and doors
- Turn off lights and fans
- Take one last walk-through
Want a personalized prep plan?
I'll walk through your home with you and make a short, prioritized list of what's worth doing before we list.
This page is a general overview to help you plan. Every home and market is different, timelines are estimates, and your signed agreements always control. It isn't legal or tax advice — ask me anytime about your situation.