Home-Selling Checklist: 10 Things To Do Before Selling Your House

Preparing to sell your home involves more than listing it online or planting a “For Sale” sign in the yard. If you want to attract buyers quickly and get top dollar, it pays to be strategic. Here are 10 essential things to do before putting your house on the market.

First and foremost, hire the right real estate agent. An experienced local agent, like Amber Huemmer, brings market knowledge, pricing strategy, negotiation skills, and marketing expertise to the table. Don’t settle for the first person who sends you a flyer—interview a few agents to find someone you trust and feel confident working with.

Next, focus on your home’s curb appeal. Buyers often form an impression before they even step inside. Simple upgrades like mowing the lawn, planting flowers, trimming shrubs, and painting the front door can make your home feel more inviting and cared for. Once inside, buyers should see a clean, spacious, and neutral environment. Declutter every room, including closets and cabinets, and remove personal items such as family photos or bold decorations. You want buyers to picture themselves living there, not feel like they’re visiting someone else’s home.

A fresh coat of paint can go a long way, especially in neutral tones like soft gray, beige, or off-white. These colors make rooms feel bigger and brighter while appealing to a wide range of tastes. While you’re at it, handle small repairs, fix loose cabinet handles, squeaky doors, scuffed walls, and burned-out bulbs. These minor flaws can raise red flags and make buyers question how well the home has been maintained.

Once repairs are done, deep-clean every inch of your house. From baseboards and blinds to tile grout and appliances, every surface should shine. Clean homes show better, photograph better, and reassure buyers that the property has been well cared for. Don’t overlook smells, either. Odors from pets, food, or musty spaces can turn buyers off instantly. Have a friend or your agent do a “smell test,” and address any issues with proper cleaning rather than overpowering air fresheners.

Staging your home, even if it's just rearranging furniture or adding a few fresh accents, can dramatically improve how buyers perceive your space. A staged home feels more spacious, updated, and move-in ready. Consider adding natural touches like a few well-placed plants or a bowl of fruit on the kitchen table to add warmth and life to the space. Check out our Top 5 Home Staging Tips article.

Lastly, take care to protect your valuables. Store away jewelry, electronics, medications, and sensitive documents during showings. While most buyers are honest, it’s best not to take any chances when people are walking through your home.

By following these ten essential steps, you'll create a strong first impression, appeal to more buyers, and increase your chances of selling quickly and profitably. A little effort before listing can make a big difference when the offers start coming in.

The Huemmer Home Team
LPT Realty
Amber Huemmer
608-279-5424