Advice for Sellers
Preparing your home before you list can reduce time on market and help you get a stronger price. Addressing these items now removes common buyer objections.

Outdoors

  • Trim shrubbery, replace dead plants, and tidy the lawn and garden
  • Keep the yard and patio neat; clean outdoor furniture
  • Clean or paint the front door
  • Clear the driveway and entryway of clutter


Exterior

  • Confirm house numbers, mailbox, and exterior lighting are in good condition
  • Touch up paint where needed
  • Check the chimney for cracks or damage
  • Repair loose trim, drain pipes, and fencing
  • Clean stains and window screens


Living Areas

  • Consider fresh neutral paint to brighten the space
  • Clean carpets
  • Replace burned-out bulbs
  • Clean the fireplace and remove smoke stains
  • Clean or replace window coverings and damaged blinds


Kitchen

  • Clean sinks, appliances, and countertops; remove clutter
  • Clean the oven, range, and other appliances
  • Clean tile and grout; replace if necessary


Bathrooms

  • Clean mirrors, glass, chrome, and porcelain
  • Replace the shower curtain if needed
  • Fix any faucet drips or leaks
  • Clean or replace grout and caulking as needed


Closets

  • Make sure doors and drawers open and close easily
  • Remove clutter and tidy shelves
  • Arrange clothes and shoes neatly


Garage

  • Remove clutter and tidy shelves
  • Clean the floor


Overall

  • Check doors, windows, and cabinets so nothing sticks, squeaks, or feels loose
  • Clean the furnace and water heater so the home shows as well maintained