Getting Organized To Move When Selling A Home
How to prepare for a move can feel overwhelming, especially the longer you live in any one place. To help ease the stress and make this a seamless process for you, here is a comprehensive guide to help you prepare to sell your home and get through the move.
Ah, the moment has arrived—you’ve decided to sell your home.
It’s both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, isn’t it? It’s not just about slapping a “For Sale” sign on the lawn and waiting for the offers to roll in. Proper preparation is crucial, not just for making your home visually appealing, but also for maximizing its market value. So, grab your notepad and let’s dive right in.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MOVE & SELL YOUR HOME | PRELIMINARY STEPS
Get an Honest Home Assessment: Before you even think about listing, get a comprehensive home assessment from a professional, ideally a REALTOR®. This will help you understand your home’s current market value and what factors could either positively or negatively impact it.
Pick the Right Time: Timing can play a big role in how quickly your home sells and at what price. Consider the season, market trends, and any local events that could influence buyer behavior.
Hire a Stellar REALTOR®: You’re going to need someone who knows the local market inside out and can guide you through the complex selling process. Your chosen REALTOR® should not only be proficient at setting the right pricing strategy but also an expert at marketing homes in your specific area.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MOVE & SELL A HOME | MAKEOVER ESSENTIALS
Deep Clean Everything: Let’s face it, nothing turns off a potential buyer faster than a dirty home. From the windows to the grout, every nook and cranny should sparkle. If this sounds overwhelming, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
Declutter the Space: A clutter-free home looks bigger and more appealing. Now’s the time to get rid of anything you don’t need. Either donate, sell, or store items that don’t serve an immediate purpose.
Depersonalize Your Home: Prospective buyers should be able to envision themselves living in your space. Remove personal items like family photos, religious symbols, or any other memorabilia that could distract from this vision.
Neutralize Wall Colors: You may love that bright orange bedroom, but it could be a deal-breaker for someone else. Opt for neutral wall colors to make the home appealing to a wider audience.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MOVE & SELL YOUR HOME | REPAIR & RENOVATE
Fix What’s Broken: Leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or chipped paint may seem minor but could signal neglect to potential buyers. Tend to these issues before listing your property.
Consider Minor Upgrades: While a full-scale renovation may not be practical, small upgrades like replacing old cabinet handles, installing a modern kitchen faucet, or updating light fixtures can make a big difference.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MOVE & SELL YOUR HOME | CURB APPEAL, YOUR PROPERTY’S FIRST IMPRESSION
Tidy Up the Yard: An unkempt yard can set a negative tone before the buyer even steps inside. Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and consider planting some seasonal flowers.
Refresh the Front Door: Your front door is like a welcoming smile. Make sure it looks inviting by either repainting it or replacing the hardware for a fresh look.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MOVE & SELL YOUR HOME: STAGED TO SELL
Make it Inviting: Staging doesn’t mean replacing all your furniture. It can be as simple as rearranging your existing setup to highlight each room’s potential.
Highlight Key Features: Got a fireplace? A lovely patio? Make these the focal points to capture attention and entice buyers.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MOVE & SELL A HOME | THE FINAL TOUCHES
Professional Photography: Once your home is looking its best, invest in professional photography for your listing. Good images can significantly impact how quickly your home sells.
Set the Right Price: Pricing your home correctly is crucial. Set it too high, and you risk it languishing on the market; too low, and you might not get its true value.
Get Ready for Showings: Be prepared for visits at any time. Keep your home in show-ready condition and make plans for pets during viewings.
Seal the Deal: Once offers start coming in, rely on your REALTOR® to help you negotiate the best deal, keeping your financial and emotional well-being in mind.
How to prepare a move while simultaneously selling a home is a HUGE deal – emotionally and financially. This preparation isn’t just about increasing the market value of your home; it’s about creating a space that tells potential buyers, “Hey, your dream life is possible right here.” So, don your gloves, pick up that paintbrush, and start preparing your home to be the star of the show!
If you’ve been thinking about selling your home, here are some other articles that may interest you:
- Selling Your Home In A High Interest Environment
- A Guide For Downsizing Your Home
- What Home Buyers Really Want
For plenty of other great content, make sure we’re connected on social @serenaholmesrealtor and you’ve subscribed to my YouTube Channel.
And, if you’re thinking about buying, selling or investing in Durham Region or Toronto, let’s chat! I can be reached at 647-896.6584, by email at info@serenaholmesrealtor.com or by filling out this simple contact form. You can also kick off your search for Durham Region homes for sale by clicking here.
Sources:
Realtor consultations and market reports
Homebuyer surveys and preferences in the Canadian market
Home improvement and renovation insights from industry experts
