Before putting your home up for sale, walk through it carefully, noticing any sticking doors, dripping faucets, or other flaws that are easy to miss day-to-day but may deter buyers. Taking time to make repairs and improvements will help your house shine, rather than allowing small defects to dim its appeal in a buyer’s view.

Start making the obvious repairs today – even if you don’t plan to sell until a year from now. These repairs can cost money and take time. Plus, fixing it now will allow you to enjoy the results before it’s time to move out.

Once we’ve decided on the market price and marketing strategy for your home, the next step is to get it ready for visitors. Give it a thorough cleaning, including the drapes, carpets, and furniture.

Toss the clutter and bric-a-brac to have your home look as if “no one lives there.” Hire a home stager to work with what you have, improving room flow and deciding which decorative items stay and which go. Outside, keep the lawn trimmed, bushes pruned, and weeds tamed. Put away the garden hose and tools. Ensure exterior lighting works. Remove flyers and papers left on the doorstep or driveway. Inside, open drapes, turn on lights, clean windows. Clear kitchen counter, bathroom sink, coffee table, and couches of clutter. Make all beds. Clean bathroom and kitchen fixtures thoroughly. Vacuum for cobwebs in ceiling corners. Take out the garbage. For showings, keep pets in the garage, basement or with a friend. Be away or politely excuse yourself. It’s easier for buyers to envision living there when you’re not present. This is your home’s chance to impress!