Preparing a Home For Sale: Get House Ready To Sell In 30 days
-
by Richard Morrison
- January 15, 2020
- Selling
- 0
Selling your home can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be hassle-free and profitable. Studies show that properly prepared homes tend to sell faster and for more money than those that are not.
This article provides you with a detailed 30-day guide to strategically prepare your home for sale, increasing its appeal to potential buyers. Stick around; getting top dollar for your property is easier than you might think!
Key Takeaways
- Properly preparing your home for sale can lead to a faster and more profitable sale.
- Decluttering and organizing your home is essential to create a spacious and appealing environment for potential buyers.
- Fixing lighting fixtures, conducting small repairs, and updating the interior spaces can significantly improve the overall appeal of your home.
- Cleaning and maintaining both the front yard and backyard are crucial in creating positive first impressions and enhancing curb appeal.
Read More:
- Essential Items To Do When Making Plans To Sell Your …
- Tips for Selling Your Home – Guide for Vancouver
- Preparing A House For Sale For High ROI
- Things To Do Before Putting Your House On The Market
- Get Your House Ready To Sell Checklist
- Foolproof Open House Tips For Sellers
Your 30-Day Guide to Preparing Your Home for Sale
Prepare your home for a top dollar sale in just 30 days with this comprehensive guide.
Day 1: Declutter To Get Your House Ready
Commencing the 30-day journey to prep your home for an optimum sale, decluttering serves as our cardinal task on Day one. A spacious environment is a visual treat for potential buyers, which we aim to create by tackling clutter systematically.
This initial step involves packing away excess items in boxes and plastic bins, ensuring tidiness throughout the process. The primary goal here isn’t just cleanliness but also the creation of roomy spaces that can be easily staged later on.
Moreover, organized closets and storage areas effectively exhibit ample space available to future homeowners. Remember, a clutter-free house presents itself as a blank canvas allowing potential buyers to imagine their own belongings within it—increasing appeal and boosting chances of a profitable sale.
Day 2: Secure a Storage Unit
On the second day of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s crucial to secure a storage unit. Getting that extra space frees up room in your home, gives you a place to store personal items during showings and provides an overall cleaner feel.
Property Escape, known for helping homeowners quickly sell their properties in LA and Orange County markets, recommends using this step as a positive factor to impress potential buyers with spacious rooms.
Day 3: Get Organized
Investing your third day in organizing closets and storage spaces can dramatically improve the appeal of your home to potential buyers. As part of your 30-day guide to preparing for a high-end property sale, it’s crucial to showcase every nook and cranny as usable space.
Declutter with intention; remove any unnecessary items that make the area look crowded or untidy. By doing this, you not only create an orderly environment but also emphasize the ample storage capacity of your home – a selling point often overlooked by many sellers but fervently sought after by smart buyers.
Day 4: Fix Lighting Fixtures
On Day 4 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to focus on fixing lighting fixtures. This simple task can have a big impact on the overall appeal and ambiance of your house.
By updating outdated fixtures or replacing broken ones, you can instantly refresh the look of common areas like the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Well-placed and well-maintained lighting fixtures can make your home look brighter, more spacious, and more inviting to potential buyers.
Day 5: Review Large Bills
On Day 5 of the 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to review and address any large bills associated with your property. This step is crucial in ensuring that your home is in optimal condition and appealing to potential buyers.
Take a close look at bills such as the roof, hot water tank, furnace, or windows and consider fixing any major issues. By taking care of these repairs early on, you can increase the value of your home and attract more interested buyers.
Day 6: Organize Paperwork
On Day 6 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to tackle the task of organizing paperwork. This step is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in creating a positive impression for potential buyers.
Start by gathering and organizing all relevant documents, such as utility bills, renovation details, warranties, and rental contracts. Having this paperwork readily available shows that you are prepared and trustworthy, giving potential buyers confidence in the condition of your home.
Day 7: Conduct Small Repairs & Home Improvements
On Day 7 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to tackle those small repairs that can make a big difference. Whether it’s fixing loose door handles, repairing leaking faucets, filling holes in the walls, or greasing squeaky door hinges, addressing these minor issues shows potential buyers that you have taken care of your property and that it is in good condition.
Day 8: Stage the Rooms
Staging the rooms is a crucial step in preparing your home for sale. By arranging furniture, adding tasteful decor, and creating an inviting ambiance, you can significantly increase the appeal and value of your home.
Staged rooms help potential buyers visualize themselves living in the space and can make a lasting impression. Remember to declutter and organize each room before staging to showcase its full potential.
Day 9: Clean the Front Yard
Cleaning the front yard is a crucial step in preparing your home for sale. The front yard is the first thing potential buyers see when they arrive, so it’s essential to create a positive first impression.
Start by investing time and effort into cleaning and maintaining the front yard to enhance its curb appeal. Power washing the driveway, walkway, and home exterior can remove dirt, pollen, and mold, instantly refreshing its appearance.
Day 10: Clean the Backyard
Day 10 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale is all about cleaning the backyard. This step is crucial in creating a positive first impression and enhancing the overall appearance of your property.
A clean and well-maintained backyard adds value and attracts potential buyers. Start by pressure washing concrete or stone surfaces to remove any dirt or grime buildup. Next, focus on cleaning patio furniture, ensuring it looks fresh and inviting.
Day 11: Interior Touch Ups
On Day 11 of our 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, we focus on the importance of interior touch-ups. This step is crucial in making your home more appealing to potential buyers.
By touching up walls and doors with a fresh coat of neutral-colored paint, you can help create a clean and inviting space that will leave a lasting impression. Additionally, take the time to ensure that all handles are in proper working order and get rid of any scuffs or marks on surfaces.
Day 12: Depersonalize Your Home To Get Your House To Sell
On Day 12 of the 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to depersonalize your space. This means removing family photos, personal items, and any unique or eccentric decor choices that may not appeal to potential buyers.
Depersonalizing your home creates a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision themselves living in the space and makes it easier for them to connect emotionally with the property.
By taking this step, you’re helping increase the chances of a successful sale by appealing to a wider range of potential buyers.
Day 13-14: Revamp Living Room and Dining Room
During days 13-14 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to revamp the living room and dining room. These spaces are crucial when it comes to making a positive impression on potential buyers.
Start by tidying up the living room, clearing away any clutter and hiding TV wires to create a clean and inviting atmosphere. Next, give your furniture and carpets a deep cleaning to make them look fresh and well-maintained.
Day 15: Update Bathroom
On Day 15 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s crucial to pay attention to updating the bathroom. This task holds significant importance in creating a positive impression on potential buyers.
A clean and fresh bathroom can contribute greatly to the overall appeal of your home. Start by replacing any outdated fixtures and making necessary repairs. Deep clean surfaces, paying close attention to details like grout, caulking, and signs of wear and tear.
By completing these tasks, you ensure that your bathroom is in top condition and ready to impress potential buyers.
Updating the bathroom is recommended as part of the preparation process to maximize the property’s appeal.
Day 16: Hire a Handyman for Major Repairs Before Home Inspection
Day 16 of the 30-Day Guide to Preparing Your Home for Sale advises homeowners to hire a handyman for major repairs. Addressing major repairs is crucial in creating buyer trust and increasing the value of your home.
By hiring a professional, you can ensure that important repairs such as fixing a leaking roof or faulty windows are done correctly and up to industry standards. Major repairs not only enhance the overall appeal and functionality of your home but also significantly impact its sale price and marketability.
Day 17: Refresh the Kitchen
On Day 17 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to refresh the kitchen. This is a crucial step in attracting potential buyers and maximizing your home’s value.
Start by clearing off countertops and removing any unnecessary items to create a clean and spacious look. Clean out the inside of cupboards, showcasing ample storage space. Don’t forget about the refrigerator! Make sure it shines and is free of clutter, as this can leave a positive impression on buyers.
Day 18: Manage Pets
During the home-selling process, it’s crucial to manage your pets properly, especially during showings. Pets can create odors and messes that may turn off potential buyers, so taking care of them and cleaning up after them is essential.
Make sure to eliminate any pet odors by thoroughly cleaning your home and avoiding smoking inside during showings. It’s also a good idea to remove any signs of pets, such as pet beds and toys, as this will help buyers envision themselves in the space.
Additionally, consider temporarily removing your pets from the home during showings to make it more appealing to potential buyers who may have allergies or concerns about pets. Managing your furry friends well throughout the selling process contributes positively to a successful sale and creates a positive experience for potential buyers.
Day 19-20: Clean Floors and Carpets
Day 19-20 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale focuses on the crucial task of cleaning the floors and carpets. It’s essential to create a clean and presentable environment that will impress potential buyers.
Clean floors and carpets greatly enhance the overall appeal of your property, contributing to a positive first impression. Removing any stains, dirt, or debris from these surfaces is vital for showcasing your home in its best light.
Day 21-22: Clean Windows and Entrance
Cleaning the windows and entrance of your home is a crucial step in preparing it for sale. Potential buyers will form their first impression based on the exterior appearance, so it’s essential to make sure everything looks pristine.
On days 21-22 of your 30-day guide, take the time to clean both the inside and outside of your windows to get rid of any streaks or smudges. This simple task can greatly improve the overall look of your home and create a positive first impression for potential buyers.
Remember that curb appeal plays a significant role in attracting buyers, so don’t overlook this important step in preparing your home for a successful sale.
Day 23-25: Hire a Realtor
On days 23-25 of the 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to focus on hiring a realtor. This step is crucial in selling your home quickly and for the most money.
Take the time to research and interview potential realtors, asking questions about their experience, expertise, marketing plan, and negotiation strategy. Look for someone who communicates promptly, has a track record of selling homes in your area, and can provide actionable suggestions to maximize your home’s appeal.
Day 26-27: Conduct Final Checks
During days 26 and 27 of your 30-day guide to preparing your home for sale, it’s time to conduct those crucial final checks. This includes ensuring that your home smells fresh and inviting by removing any pet odors and refraining from smoking inside during showings.
It’s also important to take the opportunity to interview potential realtors, review market analysis, and sign any necessary paperwork. By conducting these final checks, you’ll be well-prepared for the next steps in selling your home successfully.
Day 28: Arrange Home Staging for Showings
On Day 28 of your 30-day home preparation guide, it’s time to stage your home for showings. Staging is a crucial step in the selling process as it helps potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.
Start by removing any excess furniture and personal items to create a clean and inviting atmosphere. Optimize each room by showcasing its intended use, such as turning an extra bedroom into a home office or a basement into a cozy entertainment area.
Day 29: Market Your Home
On Day 29 of preparing your home for sale, it’s time to focus on marketing your home to attract potential buyers. This crucial step can help you sell your home quickly and for the most money.
Consider booking professional real estate photographers and videographers to capture high-quality visuals that highlight the best features of your property. In addition, organizing print materials such as brochures and flyers can enhance your marketing efforts.
Remember, keeping your home clean and well-maintained during showings is also essential in making a positive impression on potential buyers. By following this 30-day guide and enlisting the help of a professional realtor, you’ll be well-equipped to successfully market your home for a top dollar sale.
Day 30: Final Review
On the final day of your 30-day journey to prepare your home for sale, it’s time for a thorough review. Take a step back and assess every aspect of your home with a critical eye. Check if all repairs have been completed, if the rooms are staged to perfection, and if the front yard and backyard are in pristine condition.
Tips on Selecting a Realtor
- Research different real estate agents in your area to find a reputable and experienced professional.
- Look for an agent who has a track record of selling homes quickly and for top dollar.
- Consider interviewing at least three real estate agents to gauge their expertise and compatibility with your needs.
- Ask each potential agent about their average days on the market for home sales, as this can give you an idea of their efficiency.
- Look for an agent who demonstrates excellent communication skills and is responsive to your inquiries and concerns.
- Find out if the agent specializes in selling homes in your specific neighborhood or area, as local knowledge can be invaluable.
That completes the writing instruction.
The Importance of Staging for Showings
Staging your home for showings is a crucial step in the selling process. It involves strategically arranging furniture, decor, and other items to showcase each space’s potential and create an inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.
The impact of staging should not be underestimated; it can make a significant difference in how quickly your home sells and at what price.
According to studies, staged homes tend to sell faster than those that are not staged. Additionally, they often fetch higher offers from buyers. This is because staging helps potential buyers envision themselves living in the space and allows them to see its full potential.
By decluttering, rearranging furniture, adding fresh touches like flowers or scented candles, and creating an overall appealing ambiance, you are making it easier for buyers to connect with your home on an emotional level.
Furthermore, staging helps highlight the best features of your home while downplaying any flaws or less desirable aspects. With careful attention to detail, staging can transform even small or awkward spaces into functional and visually pleasing areas that appeal to a wider range of buyers.
The Impact of Marketing Your House
Effective marketing plays a crucial role in selling your house quickly and for the best possible price. It is not enough to simply list your property on a few websites or put up a “For Sale” sign in your yard.
The impact of marketing goes beyond traditional methods and encompasses various strategies that can attract potential buyers and create a sense of urgency.
One important aspect of marketing your house is professional photography. High-quality photos can capture the essence of your home, highlighting its best features and making it stand out from the competition.
In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, listings with professional photographs receive more online views and sell faster than those without.
In addition to exceptional visuals, leveraging social media platforms can significantly expand the reach of your listing. Sharing compelling content about your property on popular social networks like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can generate interest among prospective buyers who may not have been actively searching for a new home but are captivated by what they see.
Furthermore, utilizing innovative techniques such as virtual tours or 3D walkthroughs allows potential buyers to experience your property from anywhere in the world. This immersive technology provides an interactive experience that helps potential buyers visualize themselves living in your home.
The Final Look: Ensuring Your Home is Ready for Sale
To make sure your home is in top shape for selling, follow these final steps:
– Complete any remaining repairs or touch-ups on the interior and exterior of your home.
– Hire a professional cleaning service to thoroughly clean all areas, including floors, carpets, windows, and surfaces.
– Pay attention to details like freshening up paint, replacing outdated fixtures or hardware, and enhancing curb appeal with landscaping improvements.
– Consider investing in professional home staging services to create an attractive and inviting space that appeals to potential buyers.
– Schedule professional real estate photography and videography to showcase your home’s best features online.
– Obtain all necessary paperwork for the sale process, such as property disclosures and inspection reports.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What does it mean to get your house ready to sell?
Getting your house ready to sell refers to the process of preparing your home for sale in order to attract potential buyers and maximize its value on the real estate market. This involves various tasks such as decluttering, staging, repairs, and improving its overall appearance.
2. How long does it typically take to get a house ready to sell?
The time required to get your house ready to sell may vary depending on its condition and the extent of the improvements needed. However, a general guideline is to aim for a period of 30 days to complete necessary preparations and have your home listed on the market.
3. Do I need to hire a realtor to sell my home?
Hiring a realtor is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. A professional real estate agent can provide valuable expertise, guide you through the selling process, help determine an appropriate listing price, and market your property effectively to potential buyers.
4. Should I stage my home before putting it up for sale?
Yes, staging your home can significantly enhance its appeal to potential buyers. This involves arranging furniture, decluttering, depersonalizing the space, and highlighting its best features. A well-staged home can create a great first impression and increase the chances of a successful sale.
5. What are some tips for improving the curb appeal of my home?
Improving the curb appeal of your home can greatly impact its marketability. Some tips include maintaining a well-manicured lawn, adding fresh flowers or plants, repainting the front door, and ensuring the exterior of your home is clean and well-maintained.
6. Are there any specific repairs I should prioritize before selling my house?
It is essential to address any major repairs that may affect the value or marketability of your home. These may include fixing leaks, repairing broken fixtures, addressing structural issues, or replacing worn-out elements such as flooring or appliances.
7. How can I make my home look more appealing to potential buyers?
There are several ways to make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Some suggestions include applying a fresh coat of paint, decluttering and organizing each room, removing personal items such as family photos, optimizing lighting fixtures, and ensuring the space feels clean and inviting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preparing your home for sale in 30 days may seem like a daunting task, but with a well-organized plan and dedication, it can be done successfully. By following the day-by-day guide outlined above and taking care of important tasks such as decluttering, organizing, staging, and marketing your home, you will be setting yourself up for a top dollar sale.
Remember to enlist the help of a professional realtor who can guide you through the process and ensure that your home is ready to impress buyers. With proper preparation and attention to detail, you’ll be on your way to selling your home quickly and maximizing its value.
Ready to turn your real estate dreams into reality? Contact Richard Morrison, Vancouver’s top realtor with 20+ years of experience. As a Medallion Club member and RE/MAX Hall of Fame award winning agent, he’s the expert you need on your side. Whether buying, selling, or investing, Richard’s personalized approach and deep market insights ensure a successful transaction. Reach out to Richard today at (778) 900-2235 and make your real estate journey seamless and rewarding.
Latest Vancouver Listings
Indian Arm freehold property in desirable Coldwell Beach at an attainable...
Gorgeous waterfront property on Eagle Island, West Vancouver with...
ATTENTION BUILDERS! 3365 Square foot level lot backing onto newly revamped...
Introducing a 2-bedroom suite that defines urban elegance. With an added...
Generously sized 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom apartment in the heart of Coal...
The Conservatory Luxury air-conditioned concrete large-size condo is the...
Autograph is a signature series of just 64 homes by renowned local...
Westside architectural excellence. The latest signature address behind the...
This breath taking 2 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms ocean view unit located in...
MODE presents this 565sf east facing 1 bedroom + flex home in River...
Welcome to the Legendary Woodwards W32. An immaculate and cozy 1 bedroom 1...
Welcome to the TELUS GARDENS - award-winning LEED gold architecture by...
Fabulous 2 bedroom, 2 baths + den, NE Corner suite at UPTOWN by Concord...
Lovely family home in this prime West Bay location. Gorgeous city and...
PENTHOUSE home in Wall Centre Central Park! STUNNING panorama views of the...
'The Arc' by Concord Pacific! The best 1 bedroom floorplan in the...
MODE presents this 1406sqft East facing 3bedroom+flex+3baths home in River...
A nicely updated unit with a spacious sized bedroom and 1 bath. The...
The Pinnacle, an Iconic building in the heart of Yaletown. This unit has...
South Vancouver simply affordable one-bedroom home features spacious...
Start your search with Richard Morrison, Top Award Winning Vancouver Realtor:
Contact Richard Morrison Top Vancouver Realtor today to find a Vancouver real estate and Vancouver condos for sale. This includes eastside residences and eastside apartment for sale. Also check out West Vancouver homes for sale or maybe an West Vancouver condos for sale. If you prefer North Shore, take a look at our listings in North Vancouver homes for sale and North Vancouver condos for sale.
Vancouver East Houses
| Collingwood Downtown East Fraser Fraserview Grandview Hastings Hastings Sunrise | Killarney Knight Main Mt Pleasant Renfrew Heights Renfrew South Van Victoria |
Vancouver West Houses
| Arbutus Cambie Dunbar Kerrisdale Kitsilano McKenzie Heights Marpole Oakridge | Point Grey Quilchena SW Marine Shaughnessy South Cambie South Granville University West End |
Vancouver East Apartments
| Champlain Heights Collingwood East Downtown Fraser Grandview Woodland Hastings Hastings Sunrise Killarney Knight Condos | Main Mount Pleasant VE Renfrew Heights Renfrew South Marine South Van Strathcona Victoria VE |
