PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE

DISCOVER YOUR HOME'S VALUE

The very first step is the most important: Consult with a realtor who knows and is a top performer in the area as to what your home needs in order to be best marketed for sale.

The takeaway: Let your agent's expertise narrow down your "to-do" list to only what actually needs to take priority prior to listing for sale.

High-Impact, Low-Cost:  Declutter, Depersonalize, and Deep Clean

A Northeast Ohio homeowner deep cleaning his kitchen in preparation to list the home for sale with Ericka Bazzo, local Cleveland real estate agent

Boost Your Curb Appeal

Front Door Focus:

A fresh coat of paint on your front door (a welcoming color like deep blue or classic black works well), new hardware, and a new welcome mat can make a huge difference.


Landscaping Matters:

Keep the lawn mowed, trim any overgrown bushes, pull weeds, and lay down fresh mulch or pine straw. Adding a few pots of bright, colorful flowers by the front entry is a simple, charming touch.


Siding and Gutters:

Ensure your siding is clean (a power wash can work wonders) and all gutters and downspouts are securely attached and clear of debris.

Address Necessary Repairs, Don't Hide Them

The Inspection Checklist:

Fix leaky faucets, running toilets, squeaky doors, or broken light fixtures. A pre-listing inspection can be a smart investment to discover and fix issues like GFCI outlet problems or minor roof issues before a buyer's inspector finds them.


Focus on Functionality:

Ensure your HVAC systems and water heater are working and recently serviced. This documentation can be a major selling point.