The Top 5 Things to Do Before Listing Your Home

Thinking about selling your home? Before you slap a “For Sale” sign in the yard, it pays to do a little prep work. A well-prepped home doesn’t just attract more buyers—it can also help you sell faster and for top dollar. Here are the top five things you should do before listing your home:

1. Declutter and Depersonalize

Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your space—not being a guest in yours. That means less “you” and more blank canvas.

• Pack up family photos, knick-knacks, and excess décor.

• Clear off countertops, shelves, and closets (yes, buyers peek!).

• Consider renting a storage unit for bulky furniture or off-season items.

Think of it as a head start on packing!

2. Deep Clean Like You Mean It

Nothing says “well cared for” like a sparkling clean home.

• Wipe down baseboards, light fixtures, and vents.

• Steam clean carpets and shine those windows.

• Don’t forget overlooked spots like ceiling fans, behind appliances, and grout lines.

If scrubbing isn’t your favorite pastime, hiring professional cleaners can be one of the best investments before selling.

3. Boost Your Curb Appeal

First impressions happen before buyers even step inside. Make sure your home’s exterior invites them in.

• Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and add fresh mulch.

• Power wash the driveway, sidewalks, and siding.

• Add a pop of color with potted flowers or a fresh front door paint job.

Remember: curb appeal sets the tone for the whole showing.

4. Make Minor Repairs and Updates

You don’t need a full remodel, but small fixes go a long way.

• Patch holes, touch up paint, and tighten loose handles.

• Replace burnt-out lightbulbs and squeaky hinges.

• Update outdated fixtures (think faucets or cabinet pulls) for an instant refresh.

Buyers notice the little things—and so will their inspectors.

5. Stage for Success

Staging helps highlight your home’s best features. You don’t need to hire a pro (though it can pay off), but even simple steps help:

• Arrange furniture to make rooms feel open and spacious.

• Use neutral colors and simple décor.

• Add cozy touches like throw blankets and fresh flowers.

The goal? To help buyers emotionally connect and think, “Yes, this is the one.”

Ready to Sell?

Prepping your home might take a little effort, but it’s worth it. By decluttering, cleaning, boosting curb appeal, making small updates, and staging, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother—and often more profitable—sale.

At RA Homes Realty, we guide our sellers through every step of the process, from prep work to closing day. If you’re thinking about selling, let’s chat about how we can make your home shine on the market!