Set a Timeline and Budget
Before putting your house up for sale, figure out how long it will take and how much money you’ll need. Quick jobs like painting and deep cleaning might take a couple of weeks, but bigger projects—like redoing a kitchen—could take several months.
Consult a Real Estate Agent
Talk to a local real estate agent who knows your neighborhood well. They can tell you what local buyers are looking for and which upgrades are worth doing. Plus, they’ll help you set the right price for your home based on what similar houses are selling nearby.
2. Declutter and Depersonalize
When potential buyers walk into your home, they should be able to imagine themselves living there. Creating a clean, neutral, and clutter-free environment is essential. Put away personal items so buyers can easily see themselves living in the space. The fewer family photos and clutter they see, the easier for them to think, “This could be my home.”
Remove Personal Items
Start by removing family photos, keepsakes, and other personal items. While these things are special to you, they can make it difficult for buyers to picture the space as their own.
Clear Out Excess Furniture
Having too much furniture can make rooms look smaller and feel crowded. To address this, rent a storage unit to store bulky or unnecessary items. The goal is to create open, welcoming spaces that showcase your home’s best features.
According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2023, 20% of sellers’ agents noticed a 1% to 5% increase in the dollar value offered by buyers for staged homes compared to similar unstaged homes. Even if you don’t hire a professional, simply decluttering and removing personal items can make your home much more attractive to buyers.
3. Deep Clean and Repair
A tidy, well-maintained home is far more attractive to buyers. It demonstrates that the property has been well cared for and helps alleviate any concerns about potential hidden issues.
Deep Cleaning Tips
Pay extra attention to areas buyers tend to look at closely, like the kitchen, bathrooms, and floors. Here are some helpful tips:
- Scrub the grout in tiled areas to make it look fresh and clean.
- Wash the windows to let in more natural light and brighten up the space.
- Steam-clean carpets to get rid of stains and odors.
- Polish hardwood floors to give them a clean, shiny finish.
If cleaning feels like too much to handle, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to take care of it for you.
Address Repairs
Start by making a list of visible problems and tackle the most important repairs first. Common issues to address include:
- Dripping faucets.
- Cracked tiles or walls.
- Broken door handles.
- Peeling paint.
Real estate experts agree that improving cleanliness and taking care of small repairs are some of the most effective ways to increase a home’s value.
4. Boost Curb Appeal
First impressions are important, and the exterior of your home is the first thing buyers notice. Improving your curb appeal can grab their attention and create a positive vibe for the rest of the visit.
Landscaping Tips
- Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and get rid of weeds.
- Place colorful flowers or potted plants near the entrance.
- Add mulch to flower beds for a clean, polished look.
Exterior Upgrades
Even small updates can have a big impact. Consider repainting the front door, replacing old light fixtures, or updating the house numbers and mailbox.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 63% of homebuyers are more likely to visit a home they see online if it has great curb appeal. Therefore, it is definitely worth putting effort into your home’s exterior.
5. Stage and Showcase
After cleaning and making repairs, the next step is staging your home for potential buyers. Staging showcases your property’s best features and makes it feel warm and inviting.
Create a Neutral and Spacious Look
To attract a wide range of buyers, use neutral colors and simple decor. Arrange furniture to create more space and make it easier to move around. Adding mirrors can also help a room feel bigger and brighter.
Professional Photography
High-quality photos are crucial for online listings since they’re usually the first thing buyers see. Consider hiring a professional photographer to present your home in the best possible way.
According to Redfin, listings with professional photos get 118% more views compared to those without. Having high-quality images can greatly enhance your home’s appeal and boost its chances in the market.
6. Price Competitively
Pricing can make or break a deal. The right price is key to a successful sale. Pricing too high can scare off buyers, while pricing too low could mean missing out on potential profits.
Research Market Trends
Look at recent sales in your area to see what similar homes are selling for. Be sure to consider factors like the size of the home, its condition, and its location.
Work with an Agent
Your real estate agent will use their expertise to guide you in setting a competitive price for your home. Sometimes, they suggest listing it slightly below market value to draw more interest and even encourage a bidding war.
Homes priced correctly are 40% more likely to sell within the first 30 days. The first few weeks on the market are crucial for attracting buyers.
7. Pre-Market Promotion
In today’s digital age, promoting your home effectively is essential for attracting the right buyers.
Leverage Social Media
Promote your listing on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to include high-quality photos and an engaging description that highlights your home’s best features.
Host Open Houses
Open houses give buyers a chance to see your home in person. Coordinate with your agent to plan open houses at the best times, like weekends, when more people can visit.
Create an Engaging Listing
Your online listing should showcase what makes your home special. Use clear and descriptive language to highlight features like a large backyard, a modern kitchen, or a convenient location near schools and other amenities.
Final Words: How to Get Your House Ready to Sell
Preparing your house for sale is no easy feat. It takes time, effort, and planning, but the payoff is worth it. Following these steps—assessing and planning, decluttering, deep cleaning, boosting curb appeal, staging, pricing competitively, and promoting effectively—increases your chances of selling quickly and at a good price.
First impressions matter. Homes that are clean, well-maintained, and move-in ready are likelier to get strong offers. This is why you should start early, stay organized, and seek professional help when needed. If you don’t have time or just don’t want to go through all the hassle of home preparation, sell your house to a trusted cash home buyer like the We Buy Houses Cincinnati. Want to learn more? Contact us now.