Selling your house is a big deal, and can literally take 2-3 months to prepare your property—and yourself—to be ready for buyers. It helps to break your to-do list into manageable bite-size pieces to minimize the stress and keep the process under control. Here’s a quick guide to get you started.

As soon as you decide to move:

  • Interview real estate agents: Take time to find a Realtor that specializes in your area and who can demonstrate their marketing prowess.
  • Outline a plan: Work with your agent to set priorities so you can focus on finishing one task at a time. I actually create a checklist for my clients and me to work off of together so we can divide and conquer the list, if needed. The checklist includes a timeline counting down to our list date goal.
  • Declutter: Decide what you can live without until your home sells. Then pack it up and get it out!

2–3 months before listing:

  • Hire a home inspector: having a pre-listing inspection helps identifying issues early in the home-selling process. It gives you more information that you thought you needed so you can start prioritizing repairs. It also gives you heads-up on potential issues buyers might ask you to address while under contract.
  • Tackle repairs: Once you’ve taken stock of it all, tackle what matters most. Be smart. This initial investment of time and money can help generate a faster sale at a higher price.

1–2 months before listing:

  • Deep clean: Scrub every surface until it shines. Hire a pro to make carpets and rugs look—and smell—new again.
  • Set the stage: Create an inviting space that lets buyers see your house as their home. Take down family photos and other personal items. Don’t forget to stage the outdoors too.

2 weeks:

  • Say cheese: Get your home picture-perfect so the photographer can capture it in the best possible condition.  I have a great checklist that you can use when preparing for your home’s day in front of the camera.

1 week to go:

  • Discuss with your agent showing instructions and make arrangements for the fur babies during showings.

Again, the key to keeping stress at bay during the weeks and months leading up to putting your home on the market is to make a plan—and then follow that plan. Working with a Realtor can help you relax and make the selling process run more smoothly.

Ready to dive in? Give me a call at (404) 219-5968 and lets get started!

Best,

Michelle