How to Make Your Home Stand Out & Sell for Top Dollar

Are you considering selling your home and wondering what you can do to make it stand out, and get the most bang for your buck? Here are my top tips for preparing your home for the market. The best part? Most of them won’t cost you a dime!

Tip #1 Declutter!

Decluttering should be the very first step before listing your home. A clean, open space allows buyers to focus on the home itself rather than being distracted by personal belongings.

• Clear countertops, shelves, and other surfaces.

• Pack away collections, family photos, and anything that personalizes the space too much.

• If you have bulky or excess furniture, consider removing a few pieces to create more open space and better traffic flow.

• Don’t forget the yard! Remove unnecessary outdoor furniture, toys, and garden clutter to maximize curb appeal.

The goal is to make every room feel spacious, clean, and neutral so potential buyers can envision their own lives in the home.

Tip #2 Deep Clean

A spotless home gives the impression that it has been well cared for, no matter how old or outdated some features might be. Buyers notice cleanliness, and it can make a bigger impact than you think.

• Clean everything from top to bottom: baseboards, ceiling fans, windows, and appliances.

• Pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, these areas should sparkle.

• If it fits in your budget, consider hiring professional cleaners. It’s often worth the investment.

• Don’t forget about the basement, garage, and other storage areas. Buyers will look everywhere!

  
  

Tip #3 Power Wash the Exterior

First impressions matter. Power washing the outside of your home can make it look years newer and show buyers that the property has been well maintained.

• Wash siding, brick, porches, patios, driveways, and walkways.

• You can rent a power washer from a home improvement store like Home Depot, or hire a professional.

A clean exterior sets the tone before buyers even walk through the door.

Tip #4 Light Landscaping

Curb appeal can make or break a buyer’s first impression. You don’t need to invest in a full landscaping overhaul, just a few simple touches go a long way.

• Pull weeds and remove dead plants.

• Refresh mulch in flower beds.

• Trim overgrown bushes and trees.

• Plant seasonal flowers or add potted plants and hanging baskets for color and charm.

• Keep the lawn mowed and edged.

A tidy and inviting exterior helps buyers fall in love before they even step inside.

Tip #5 Replace One High-Ticket Item (If Needed)

If you have some room in your budget and want to make a bigger investment that will attract buyers, focus on major systems rather than cosmetic upgrades. The top items buyers (and their agents) pay attention to are:

• Roof

• Furnace

• Windows

• Air Conditioning

If any of these items are nearing the end of their lifespan or need obvious repairs, replacing one can be a major selling point. Buyers appreciate knowing they won’t face a big expense soon after moving in. I recommend prioritizing these over trendy kitchen remodels or new flooring. Tastes vary, and I’ve seen many buyers dislike recent renovations that sellers thought would impress. Structural and mechanical updates offer peace of mind and appeal to a broader pool of buyers.

I hope these tips were helpful! If you’d like more advice on how to prepare your home for sale, or want a personalized strategy for your property. Contact me to schedule a free seller consultation. I’d love to help you make the most of your sale.