Sep 02, 2021

How Should You Prepare Your House Before Selling It? A Complete Guide

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How to Prepare Your House Before Selling: A Complete Guide

According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2023 Profile of Home Staging, 81% of buyers say a well-staged home makes it easier to visualize the property as their future home. But preparing your house for sale involves more than just staging – it’s about creating an irresistible first impression that turns viewers into buyers.

Why Home Preparation Matters

Think of preparing your home for sale like getting ready for a job interview. You want to make the best possible first impression because you rarely get a second chance. Just as you wouldn’t show up to an interview in wrinkled clothes, you shouldn’t list your home without proper preparation.

Start with a Professional Assessment

Pre-Sale Home Inspection

Before diving into improvements, consider getting a pre-sale home inspection. This proactive step helps you:

  • Identify potential issues before buyers discover them.
  • Plan repairs strategically.
  • Build buyer confidence.
  • Avoid last-minute negotiation surprises.

💡 Pro Tip: Having repair estimates ready for major items shows buyers you’re transparent and helps them make informed decisions.

Essential Updates That Add Value

Focus on First Impressions

The exterior of your home is like your property’s handshake – make it firm and confident! Key areas to address:

  • Clean and repair the front fence.
  • Maintain landscaping (mow lawns, weed gardens).
  • Pressure wash facades.
  • Update your front door (paint or replace).
  • Ensure clear, visible house numbers.
  • Clean windows and frames.

Interior Improvements

According to industry experts, these updates offer the best return on investment:

1. Kitchen Refreshes

  • Paint or update cabinet fronts.
  • Replace outdated hardware.
  • Update lighting fixtures.
  • Deep clean appliances.

2. Bathroom Updates

  • Replace worn fixtures.
  • Re-grout tiles.
  • Update lighting.
  • Fix any leaks or drips.

3. Fresh Paint

  • Choose neutral colors.
  • Ensure consistent color flow.
  • Repair wall damage before painting.

The Power of Proper Staging

Declutter and Clean

Remember: you’re not just selling a house – you’re selling a lifestyle. Create space for buyers’ imaginations:

  • Remove personal items.
  • Clear countertops.
  • Organize closets.
  • Deep clean everything.
  • Pack away excess furniture.

Create Ambiance

Make your home feel welcoming:

  • Maximize natural light.
  • Ensure a comfortable temperature.
  • Add fresh flowers.
  • Use subtle, pleasant scents.
  • Stage key living areas.

Document Everything

Create a home portfolio including:

  • Warranty information.
  • Maintenance records.
  • Recent improvements.
  • User manuals.
  • Utility bills.

When Things Need Extra Help

If your home isn’t attracting offers, consider:

  1. Refreshing the staging.
  2. Reviewing your price strategy.
  3. Taking a brief market break.
  4. Consulting with your agent about new marketing approaches.

Cost Considerations

Most staging and preparation costs range from 1-3% of your home’s selling price. The median staging cost is $600 when using a professional service, or $400 when working with your real estate agent.

📍 Related: Selling Your Home: Insider Tips for a Quick and Profitable Sale

Need Help Selling Your Home?

Every home has the right buyer—sometimes, it’s just about making the right adjustments.

If you have questions about why your home isn’t selling or want an expert’s opinion on market conditions in Quebec, reach out today!

📞 Call Peter Thompson: (438) 500-8344
📩 Email: peter@peterthompson.ca

🏡 About Peter Thompson

Peter Thompson is a Quebec real estate expert specializing in helping homeowners navigate complex market conditions. Contact him today for a personalized home sale strategy.

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