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The Ultimate Pre-Listing Checklist to Sell Your Home Faster
Selling your house is not just a small step; in fact, it is a giant leap. Whatever the reason may be, one thing is certain: you want to sell as quickly and as high as possible. However, before you put the sign on the lawn, which says “For Sale,” you must take specific preparations.
That’s where a solid pre-listing checklist becomes your best friend. Your strategy is to ensure your house is market-ready with the shortest days on market and find serious buyers within the first few days of its listing.
Here is what to do before listing a house, and why each stage must be completed.
Why You Need a Pre-Listing Checklist
Consider selling a house as a first date. There is no second chance at the first impression. According to House Beautiful, buyers’ first impressions of a home are formed within 10 seconds of stepping into the house. That’s fast.
Using a pre-listing checklist helps you control that first impression and shows buyers that your home is well-maintained and move-in ready.
Schedule a Pre-Listing Home Inspection
Before taking any action, consider scheduling a pre-listing home inspection.
It is a wise and proactive step. Instead of letting a buyer’s inspector come and identify the flaws, you identify and correct them beforehand. Issues such as plumbing leaks, faulty wiring, damaged roofs, and others can be identified during a pre-listing inspection.
It has the following advantages:
- Prevents the instruments of surprise in negotiations at the last minute.
- Develops confidence in the buyers.
- Accelerates closing.
It can even help you price higher if the essential systems are in perfect condition.
Clean out all Rooms
One of the most important things to check before listing a house is the level of clutter. Customers wish to view the room, not your inventory.
Go room by room and:
- Remove personal items and photos.
- Clean out counters, tables, and shelves.
- Sort out closets, cupboards, and storage compartments.
If you don’t have time, you can hire a storage unit or pack early. Minimalism sells.
Deep Clean like Really Deep Clean
Houses that are cleaned go faster. Not only an opinion, but it is a fact. The HomeLight data shows that a deep-cleaned home can add more than 3-5% to the sale price.
Focus on:
- Vents, ceiling fans, and baseboards.
- Windows and mirror windows.
- Kitchens and bathrooms (kitchen sinks and grout).
- Furniture under floors, rugs, and carpets.
Don’t miss the garage, the basement, and the laundry room. Customers will search all over.
Tackle Repairs: Big or Small
This is a crucial step to take before listing a house. That little fix you have been working on? It is time to do it. See the following and determine if they require repair or replacement:
- Dripping taps and running toilets.
- Squeaky doors or faulty handles.
- Cracked tiles or peeling paint.
- Fused bulbs and non-functioning outlets.
What you require is not a total makeover. Simply pay attention to everything that screams out deferred maintenance.
Paint or Touch Up
Your best friend is the use of neutral paint colors. They make the rooms look inviting, and people who come to buy property visualize the place as their own.
Settle on such shades as:
- Soft gray.
- Warm beige.
- Classic white.
If your house has loud colors on the walls or has old-fashioned wallpapers, you can tone it down now. One of the most profitable ROI projects to perform before the sale is a basic paint coat.
Increase Curb Appeal
Consumers will decide whether to buy your house even before they enter it. Experts conclude that curb appeal can give sellers an advantage over potential buyers by as much as 7%.
This is how to produce a good first impression:
- Mow the lawn and prune the hedges.
- Clean the siding and walkway using a power washer.
- Place some potted plants or flowers at the front door.
- Repaint or change your mailbox and house numbers.
Your home doesn’t have to look new; just a few changes can make it look good and welcoming.
Stage the Space
You don’t have to hire a professional stager to ensure your house looks fabulous. It is as simple as thinking like a buyer.
Ideas on easy staging:
- Make the dining table ready.
- Put new towels in the lavatories.
- Put a couch and a blanket with some throw pillows on it.
- Before the showings, light scented candles or prepare cookies.
It aims to create a friendly and winning atmosphere that buyers will not forget.
Gather Critical Papers
Getting organized is one of those behind-the-scenes things to check before listing a house. Collect:
- Utility bills.
- Ruling or fees of the HOA.
- Key systems or appliances’ warranties.
- Licenses and permits for new upgrades.
By having these prepared in advance, buyers see that you mean business and that you are truthful.
Take Professional Photos
After your house is clean, de-cluttered, and staged, it’s time to take photographs. Houses with high-quality listing images sell 32% faster compared to homes with regular or nonexistent listing pictures.
If your agent provides professional photography services, use them. It is worth the money.
Conclusion: Preparation Is What Counts
Selling your house need not be an uphill task. With a proper pre-listing checklist, you can take control of the process, eliminate stress, and maximize your sale price.
From a pre-listing home inspection to boosting curb appeal, these small steps add up to significant results.
Contact GreenWorks Inspections to get the job started right. Our professional pre-listing home inspections give you the insight and confidence to sell your home faster and with fewer surprises.
Book your appointment now with GreenWorks Inspections and ensure your home doesn’t become a second choice to the buyers.
