Preparing your home for sale is a serious undertaking if you want to maximize the value of your home – and who doesn’t want to do that?
And with the popular fall selling season getting under way, you have the ideal opportunity to tap into increasing buyer enthusiasm.
Fall is one of the best times of year to sell your property. Buyers are back from their summer vacations and have a goal of settling into a new property before the holiday season gets underway in a few months.
The latest industry figures say that the number of deals are increasing month-over-month, and there is a high expectation of a reduction in mortgage costs later this month if the Federal Reserve reduces the funds rate from its current 4.5% guidance.
I always recommend my clients set aside a realistic timeframe of six to 12 weeks to get their home in top-notch condition.
To get the best price possible, we need to make thoughtful improvements that add genuine value and appeal.
Consider commissioning a pre-sale building inspection report before you even pick up a paintbrush. This will give a clear, professional overview of any issues that need to be addressed, from minor leaks to more significant structural concerns.
By fixing these problems proactively, you eliminate any potential red flags for buyers and ensure a smoother, more transparent sale process.
After the work is done, you should get a second inspection report to show buyers that the home has a clean bill of health. This builds confidence and trust, which are priceless in a competitive market.
Here are some essential tips to prepare your home:
Declutter and depersonalize – This is a crucial first step. Go through every room and remove unnecessary items. The goal is to create a neutral, clean canvas so buyers can easily envision themselves living in the space. Less is more!
Deep clean – A spotless home signals that it has been well-maintained. Consider booking a professional team to do a top-to-bottom deep clean. Ask them to wash windows inside and out, scrub grout in the kitchen and bathrooms, and dust every surface, including light fixtures and baseboards.
Curb appeal – First impressions are everything, especially in fall and winter when gardens are not full of flowers. Trim shrubs, rake leaves and make sure the walkway is clear of snow and ice. Add a fresh coat of paint to the front door and make sure the house number is visible.
Optimize lighting – At this time of year, good lighting is essential. Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. Turn on every interior light when buyers visit.
Floor focus – Have carpets professionally cleaned to remove stains and odors. If hardwood floors are looking worn, consider having them refinished.
Brush up – A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color (like off-white, light gray, or beige) can instantly update a room and make it feel larger and cleaner.
Center stage – Staging is about showing a home’s potential. Arrange furniture to highlight a room’s best features and create a sense of flow. Consider hiring a stylist for the best results.
Focus on fresh – A home should smell fresh and clean. Pet, smoke or cooking odors can be a major turn-off.
Get cozy – This is the perfect time to make a home feel warm and inviting. Use soft blankets, plush pillows and subtle scents like vanilla or cinnamon. If you have a fireplace, have it cleaned and ready to go.