Top Tips to Prepare Your Home for Sale (and Get Top Dollar!)

Thinking of selling your home? First impressions matter—and when it comes to attracting potential buyers, how you present your home can make a big difference in how quickly it sells and how much you get for it. Whether you're listing in a hot market or facing a bit more competition, preparing your home for sale is one of the most important steps in the selling process.

Here are the top tips to get your home market-ready, impress buyers, and maximize your home's selling potential.

1. Boost Your Curb Appeal

Before buyers step inside, they’re already forming opinions based on your home’s exterior. Make sure it shines!

Tips:

• Power wash the siding, driveway, and walkways

• Add fresh mulch and seasonal flowers

• Paint or polish your front door

• Install new house numbers or light fixtures for a modern touch

Why it matters: Homes with strong curb appeal tend to sell faster and for more money. A fresh, inviting exterior sets the tone for what’s inside.

2. Declutter and Depersonalize

Buyers want to envision themselves living in your space—not feel like they’re visiting someone else’s.

Tips:

• Remove personal photos, unique collectibles, and bulky furniture

• Clear countertops in kitchens and bathrooms

• Donate or store excess belongings to make rooms feel spacious

Pro tip: Consider renting a storage unit temporarily—it’s worth it to show your home at its best.

3. Deep Clean Everything

A spotless home signals to buyers that it’s been well cared for.

Focus on:

• Scrubbing bathrooms and kitchens until they sparkle

• Cleaning inside appliances, windows, baseboards, and light fixtures

• Eliminating odors with neutral air fresheners or natural scents

Bonus: Don’t forget pet hair and dander—many buyers are sensitive to allergens.

4. Make Minor Repairs

Little details can send big signals. Small flaws suggest the home wasn’t maintained.

Fix or update:

• Leaky faucets

• Loose handles or cabinet doors

• Scuffed paint or dinged walls

• Burned-out light bulbs or dated fixtures

Even simple changes like swapping out switch plates or updating cabinet hardware can modernize your home instantly.

5. Stage Each Room with Purpose

Home staging helps buyers visualize how they could use the space. Every room should have a clear function.

Tips:

• Set the dining table with simple place settings

• Add cozy pillows and throws to the living room

• Create a calm, spa-like vibe in bathrooms

• Style the primary bedroom as a retreat

If you’re not sure where to start, consider working with a professional home stager or ask your real estate agent for advice.

6. Let There Be Light

Bright homes feel bigger and more inviting.

To brighten up your space:

• Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light

• Replace outdated bulbs with daylight LEDs

• Use mirrors to reflect light and add depth

Avoid dark or heavy drapes—they can make rooms feel smaller than they are.

7. Neutralize Your Color Palette

While bold colors may reflect your personal taste, they may not appeal to every buyer.

Tips:

• Repaint brightly colored rooms with soft neutrals (like warm greys, taupe, or soft white)

• Add color with accessories like throw pillows, artwork, or rugs

A neutral palette helps buyers imagine their own furniture and style in the space.

8. Highlight Key Features

What makes your home stand out? Whether it’s a fireplace, large windows, or a newly renovated kitchen—make sure buyers notice it.

Do this by:

• Rearranging furniture to focus on the feature

• Using lighting to draw attention

• Mentioning standout features in your listing description and during showings

9. Capture Professional Photos

Once your home is ready, professional real estate photography is essential. Online listings with high-quality photos get more views and more showings.

Pro tips:

• Schedule the shoot during daylight hours

• Turn on all lights and open all blinds

• Make beds, fluff pillows, and hide cords or clutter

Investing in good photos is one of the smartest things you can do to attract buyers online.

10. Work With a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent

An experienced agent will not only guide you through the process but also help you determine which updates and preparations will deliver the best return on investment.

A great agent will:

• Provide staging tips and a pricing strategy

• Coordinate professional photos and marketing

• Help you prioritize updates based on local market trends

Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for sale doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking time to clean, declutter, and stage your home strategically, you can increase its value and appeal to a broader range of buyers.

Thinking of listing your home soon? Start with these tips and connect with a trusted local real estate expert to ensure a smooth, successful sale.