Getting your house ready to sell can create all kinds of stress and uncertainty.
Which updates are worth making?
Will buyers think your home is outdated (or overpriced)?
And how much work should you really do?
If you’re like most sellers, you probably have a lot on your plate.
You want to do the right things before selling your house.
But you don’t want to waste time and money.
One way to avoid that?
Get expert advice early in the home selling process.
Many sellers wait to hire a real estate agent because they assume an agent won’t be helpful until it’s time to list.
That’s not completely true.
A good listing agent can architect a plan that helps you focus on what really matters.
And they can make the process much easier (and more profitable).
But even with expert guidance, you’re still the one making the final decisions.
So it’s crucial to know which steps to take before listing — and how they can impact your sale.
Here’s how to get your house ready to sell the right way.
1. Choose your pre-listing goal
Most sellers prioritize one of these three goals when preparing to sell:
- Selling for top dollar
- Getting the house ready quickly
- Minimizing stress.
Your top goal usually comes down to two things:
- Why you’re selling
- How much time you have before listing.
For example, you might be short on time if you’re relocating for a job.
So, in that case, streamlining the prep work might matter more than squeezing out every dollar.
You might have more time if you’re retiring and moving out of your area.
In that situation, maximizing your home’s value probably becomes the clear focus.
Or if you’re selling an inherited home, reducing stress might be the most important goal.
What’s your top priority for getting your house ready for sale?
It’s tempting to choose all three.
But, defining one primary objective makes it much easier to implement the right prepping strategy.
And the right strategy will save you time and money on things that aren’t as important to you.
In other words, choosing one pre-sale objective will help you make better decisions.
Like which improvements are worth it and what things you should skip before listing.
The takeaway?
Get clear on your pre-listing goal.
Because every decision you make should move you closer to that one result.
2. Declutter to highlight your home’s features
Showcasing your home is the end goal of getting it ready to sell.
And that starts with decluttering.
What you remove (and where it goes) depends on whether the home will be vacant or occupied when it hits the market.
Decluttering a vacant home
Clearing out your home will take more effort if it will be unoccupied when listed.
But that’s not a bad thing.
A vacant house gives you a blank slate to stage for your ideal buyer.
The key is to remove anything that makes the property feel abandoned instead of inviting.
Keep these things in mind to make a vacant home clutter-free before listing.
Remove all furniture: Clear out all furnishings (beds, chairs, nightstands, etc.) unless they’re being used for staging.
Empty closets, cabinets, and drawers: Small storage areas are easy to miss when purging a recently occupied home. Double-check every space to make sure nothing is left behind.
Use social platforms and garage sales to offload items: Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and local Buy Nothing groups are great for quickly giving away or selling old furniture, décor, and tools. Hosting a garage sale can also help you lighten your moving load fast.
Do a final sweep for forgotten items: Don’t forget the attic, garage, and side yard. These areas are often missed — but buyers will definitely look.
Decluttering an occupied home
Staying in your house while it’s listed for sale can make decluttering feel overwhelming.
But clearing up space is crucial.
Why?
Because clutter makes it harder for buyers to imagine themselves living in your home.
Use these tips to get your home feeling clean, neutral, and inviting:
- Start with storage bins and moving boxes: Use trash bags for anything you’re tossing, and clearly label boxes for things you plan to keep, donate, or store.
- Organize closets, cabinets, and drawers: Most buyers love to see room to store their belongings. Neatly arranged spaces suggest there’s ample storage, even if there isn’t.
- Use the garage for storage, if needed: If you’re tight on space, it’s okay to store items in the garage. Buyers will look, but keeping items there won’t have a negative impact.
- Avoid blocking key features: Don’t stash items in under-stair nooks or utility areas that buyers may want to inspect.
- Consider a storage unit: If you’re running out of space or need to move large furniture, renting a portable storage container can help get your home show-ready.
- Remove personal distractions: Clear out family photos, bold décor, and anything that reflects your personal style. The more neutral your space feels, the easier it is for buyers to picture themselves living there.
3. Evaluate your home like a buyer would
Buyers will notice things about your home that you’ve probably overlooked for years.
That’s why it’s smart to catch potential red flags before your house hits the market.
But this step isn’t about making changes yet.
It’s about seeing your home through a buyer’s eyes (and taking notes).
That shift in perspective can help you decide which issues might be worth addressing later.
And it can also guide more objective decisions about your list price and how you negotiate with buyers.
Start outside and stand across the street:
- Is the front yard clean and inviting?
- Do the garage or front door need fresh paint?
- Does the roof have leaves, moss, or debris that should be cleared?
- Can your back yard use a little updating?
Walk the exterior and jot down anything that looks damaged, dated, or neglected.
Then step inside and go room by room:
- Check for wall scuffs, chipped paint, and broken fixtures.
- Open and close windows and doors to test functionality.
- Run faucets and flush toilets to spot leaks or low pressure.
- Check lights, switches, appliances, filters, and smoke detectors.
- Assess your kitchen and bathrooms for minimal updates.
Your list will give you a clearer picture of how buyers might perceive your home.
It also reveals potential repairs and improvements that could:
- Raise concern
- Give buyers leverage during negotiations
- Deliver a return on your investment.
Once your list is complete:
- Tackle the easy fixes now (like loose doorknobs, burned-out light bulbs, and making sure smoke detectors are fully functional).
- Wait on anything bigger until after you’ve gotten a pre-listing inspection or input from your agent.
4. Get a pre-listing home inspection
Do you need a home inspection before putting your house on the market?
No.
But getting one up front can be one of the smartest investments you make as a seller.
Here’s why…
A pre-listing inspection helps you uncover potential issues before a buyer does.
And the fewer surprises a buyer finds, the less likely they are to:
- Ask for repairs or a price reduction after going under contract
- Back out of the sale altogether.
You can also use the report to decide what, if anything, you want to repair or replace.
But that’s entirely up to you.
You’re not obligated to fix anything just because it shows up in the report.
You can still sell your home as-is.
The real value is transparency.
You’re showing buyers what’s “under the hood” before they even make an offer.
That builds trust.
And that trust can lead to selling faster and for a higher price.
You can order a pre-sale home inspection in two ways:
- Contact a licensed home inspector directly.
- Ask your real estate agent for a trusted referral.
You should get the full report within 1-2 days of the inspection.
Bonus tip: Ordering specialized inspections — like a roof inspection, termite report, or sewer line check — can uncover hidden issues early and give buyers even more peace of mind.
5. Make high-impact repairs
Now it’s time to decide which repairs are worth making.
Start by reviewing the notes you made when evaluating your home, along with your inspection report (if you got one).
Then create a list of the items you’re planning to fix or update.
It’s easy to go down the rabbit hole of trying to fix every little thing.
But you can avoid that by setting a realistic repair budget up front.
If you’re working with a real estate agent, now’s the time to ask for their input.
A good agent can help you prioritize what you should fix and what you should skip.
Common repairs to focus on before listing
Here are common repairs to consider when getting a house ready to sell:
Fix plumbing issues: Repair leaky faucets, running toilets, and slow drains. Even minor water issues can raise red flags about hidden problems or deferred maintenance.
Repair roofing problems: Replace missing shingles and patch small roof leaks. Roof issues often seem more expensive to buyers than they really are — so fixing them early can prevent unnecessary concern.
Check your HVAC system: Replace dirty filters and make sure the system runs smoothly. Buyers want reassurance that the heating and cooling system won’t need immediate attention.
Address electrical issues: Replace broken switches and non-working lights, and upgrade to GFCI outlets in the kitchen and bathrooms. These simple fixes show your home is safe and up to date.
Fix windows and doors: Ensure they open and close properly, seal well, and have intact locks and screens. Sticky or drafty windows can make buyers suspect bigger problems.
Make exterior repairs: Repair broken siding, damaged gutters, and rotting trim or steps. Exterior flaws can make buyers question how well the home has been maintained.
Seal gaps and foundation cracks: Use caulk or sealant to close gaps around windows and fix small cosmetic cracks. This helps with energy efficiency and eases concerns about water or pest intrusion.
Once you’ve identified which items to address, make a plan.
Will you handle the repairs yourself, or hire a professional?
If you’re working with an agent, ask for handyman or contractor recommendations.
They’ll often have trusted contacts who can get things done quickly and affordably.
6. Choose home improvements that pay off
Not all improvements are worth making as you prepare your home for sale.
Some drain your time and budget without increasing your home’s value.
So if you plan to make upgrades, choose wisely.
The best way to do that?
Talk to your real estate agent.
They’ll offer an unbiased opinion, and a good one knows what buyers in your market are actually looking for.
Once you’ve gathered their input:
- Weigh the cost of each upgrade against its potential impact on resale value.
- Get quotes from two or three contractors.
- Decide which projects are worth pursuing.
- Schedule the work and set a clear timeline.
The best upgrades are the ones that make your home feel more modern and move-in ready.
In other words, they enhance your home’s visual appeal and buyer confidence — without the need for a major remodel.
Here are a few updates that often deliver a strong return:
- Fresh interior paint: Neutral paint makes your home feel brighter, cleaner, and ready to be occupied (exterior paint can help too, though it typically has a smaller ROI).
- New countertops: Swapping dated counters for quartz can transform a kitchen or bathroom — especially if it’s already in decent condition.
- Stainless steel appliances: Replacing white or black appliances with stainless steel gives your kitchen a higher-end, cohesive look.
- Updated flooring: Replacing carpet or dated laminate with luxury vinyl plank or hardwood can elevate your home’s feel instantly.
Even small updates can help:
- Swap out outdated fixtures in the kitchen or bathrooms.
- Replace old light switch or outlet covers.
- Add modern cabinet hardware and door handles.
- Remove dated curtains and install clean, neutral blinds.
The goal is to boost your home’s appeal — and your sale price — without overspending.
Focus only on improvements that help your house sell faster and for more money than they cost.
7. Boost your curb appeal
Your front yard is the first impression buyers will have.
And it sets the tone for how they view the rest of your home.
But improving curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot.
You just need the right updates in the right places.
Start by revisiting your list from the exterior walkthrough.
Then decide which updates to tackle yourself.
And which ones may require help from a landscaper or handyman.
If you go the professional route, get 2–3 quotes and compare timelines, pricing, and availability.
Short on time?
Your real estate agent can help coordinate everything.
Here are some affordable curb appeal upgrades that make a big difference:
- Add fresh mulch to bare patches and flower beds.
- Plant seasonal flowers or low-maintenance shrubs.
- Trim overgrown bushes and tree limbs.
- Power wash walkways, the porch, or siding.
- Repaint or replace the front door or garage door.
- Clean or upgrade your house numbers and mailbox.
- Replace old light fixtures with modern versions.
- Sweep away cobwebs and dirt from the entry.
The small details matter.
A dusty door or messy yard can make buyers question how well the rest of the home is maintained.
So what should you aim for?
A clean and welcoming exterior that makes buyers excited to step inside.
8. Deep-clean every room
Put yourself in the shoes of a buyer for a moment.
You walk into an open house and immediately notice signs of poor cleanliness.
Dirty floors.
Dusty baseboards.
Smudged mirrors.
Lingering pet odors.
And grimy sinks.
Naturally, you’d question how well the home has been maintained.
That’s exactly why deep-cleaning is a must before selling.
It’s the finishing touch that signals to buyers your home has been cared for.
Do it right before staging and listing photos so your home shines both online and in person.
If you’re doing it yourself, set aside enough time.
Or hire a professional cleaning service to get it done quickly and thoroughly.
Here’s where to focus:
- Dust from top to bottom: Corners, ceiling fans, vents, light fixtures, and baseboards.
- Wipe down all surfaces: Countertops, appliances, bathroom vanities, and sinks.
- Scrub the kitchen and bathrooms: Tackle soap scum, mildew, and odors.
- Clean appliances: Degrease stovetops, wipe inside the microwave, and scrub refrigerator shelves.
- Wash mirrors and windows: Remove streaks and clean window screens.
- Deep-clean the floors: Shampoo carpets, polish wood, and mop tile.
- Eliminate odors: Open windows, use neutral cleaners, and treat pet smells at the source.
A clean home doesn’t just look better.
It shows better, smells better, and reduces buyer concerns.
And that can lead to a faster and stronger offer.
9. Stage your home for the right buyer
Staging is one of the most powerful ways to make buyers fall in love with your home.
Why?
Because it helps transform a home’s layout to feel livable, open, and ready to move into.
But it’s most effective when you tailor the space to match the lifestyle of your ideal buyer.
Start by getting expert input.
Ask your listing agent for a staging consultation or a referral to a trusted local stager.
Then assess the cost of full or partial staging (some agents cover the cost in middle to higher-end markets).
Your agent can help you weigh options based on your budget, timeline, and selling strategy.
If the home is vacant, staging is almost always worth it.
Empty homes feel colder, smaller, and harder for buyers to picture themselves in.
Ideally, stage the entire home.
But if you need to prioritize, focus on the rooms that buyers care about most:
- The living room
- The kitchen and dining area
- The primary bedroom
- Any awkward or undefined spaces.
Still living in the home?
You can (and should) stage it too.
Here’s how:
- Remove or reposition bulky furniture to maximize space.
- Use neutral decor and soft textures to create warmth.
- Clear surfaces, hide personal items, and highlight each room’s best features
- Consider partial staging if you want help with select rooms or accessories.
Once your home is staged, capture it with professional photos that sell the experience.
Strong listing photos boost showing activity and increase your chances of selling faster.
10. Prep for listing day
Listing day is your home’s debut.
And first impressions — online and in person — can make or break a sale.
That’s why this final step is all about the finishing touches.
Even if your home has been cleaned, staged, and upgraded, it’s not time to relax just yet.
You still need to make sure it looks its absolute best for buyer showings.
Here’s what to do in the 24–48 hours before listing:
- Do a final clean: Wipe down counters, clean floors, and remove any new dust or smudges.
- Declutter again: Put away daily-use items (toothbrushes, dish racks, pet bowls, etc.).
- Fluff and freshen: Smooth bedding, fluff pillows, and add a fresh scent or air out the house.
- Check curb appeal one last time: Sweep the porch, straighten furniture, and water plants.
- Secure valuables and prescriptions: Safeguard any personal items before showings begin.
- Prepare to leave the home during showings: Let buyers tour freely during showings and open houses so they can imagine themselves living there.
The end result of prepping for listing day is a home that’s walkthrough-ready from the moment buyers arrive.
Conclusion
Getting your house ready for sale is about making the right moves in the right order.
From decluttering to final prepping, every step influences how buyers see your home.
So follow a proven plan, take your time where it counts, and lean on expert guidance to avoid mistakes.
Because the better prepared you are, the better your results will be.
Need help getting your home ready?
A great real estate agent can make the entire process easier, faster, and more profitable.
But first, make sure you know how to find a good Realtor.