Top Tips to Prep Your Home for Sale and Get Top Dollar in Today's Market

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions truly matter. Buyers form opinions within seconds of seeing your listing photos—or stepping through the front door. That’s why prepping your home properly can mean the difference between a quick sale at (or above) asking price and sitting on the market too long. The good news? You don’t have to do a full renovation to attract top-dollar offers. A few strategic moves can go a long way.

Start with a Deep Clean and Declutter
Before you think about upgrades or staging, your home needs to be spotless. Clean from top to bottom—baseboards, ceiling fans, carpets, windows, and everything in between. Then, declutter every space. Remove excess furniture, clear off countertops, and organize closets. Buyers want to imagine themselves living there, and clutter distracts from your home’s best features. Remember: less is more when it comes to selling.

Neutralize and Depersonalize
Buyers should walk into a home and feel like they could make it their own. That’s hard to do when your walls are bright purple or family photos are everywhere. Repaint walls in soft, neutral tones like greige or soft white, and store away personal items. This creates a clean slate and helps your home appeal to a broader audience. Small cosmetic touches like fresh paint and modern light fixtures can offer a big return.

Boost Your Curb Appeal
Your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see—both online and in person. Spruce up your landscaping, power wash the driveway, add fresh mulch, and consider painting or replacing the front door. A welcoming entryway sets the tone for the rest of the showing and signals that the home has been well cared for.

Stage to Sell
Home staging is more than just decorating—it’s a strategic way to highlight your home’s strengths and downplay any flaws. Whether you hire a professional stager or use your own furnishings, the goal is to make each room feel open, functional, and inviting. Focus especially on high-impact areas like the living room, kitchen, and primary bedroom. Thoughtful touches like fresh flowers or a bowl of lemons in the kitchen can make a big impact.

Schedule a Pre-Listing Walkthrough with Me!
Finally, bring in a professional. As a seasoned real estate agent, I can walk through your home and offer customized advice on what’s worth fixing—and what’s not. In a competitive market, buyers are often willing to pay more for a home that feels move-in ready. A little prep work now can add thousands to your bottom line later.  Call me today to schedule!

Lesley Perreault

REAL Broker, LLC

316-202-5515