The Ultimate Home Selling Guide: A Checklist for Maximum Profit & Minimum Stress
Selling your home can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can ensure a smooth and successful experience. Whether you’ve sold before or you’re preparing for your first sale, knowing what to expect ahead of time is key to reducing uncertainty and ensuring you feel confident every step of the way. At Veronica Morss Real Estate, we’ve had the privilege of helping countless homeowners sell their properties throughout Seattle and the Eastside. Through our experience, we’ve learned firsthand what makes the biggest difference in ensuring a smooth and successful sale for our clients. Follow this ultimate home selling checklist to reduce stress and maximize your home's appeal to potential buyers.
1. Get a Pre-Listing Inspection
One of the smartest things you can do before listing your home is to schedule a pre-listing inspection. We always recommend this step to every client, regardless of the home. This helps you uncover any potential issues early, allowing you to address them proactively rather than being caught off guard during a buyer’s inspection. It also reduces the opportunity for negotiations that are not in your favor for repairs such as requests for buyer credits or lowering the sales price. By doing this, you can give buyers confidence that your home has been well maintained and minimize the chances of negotiations falling through.
2. Make Necessary Repairs and Upgrades
Once you receive your inspection report, take care of any repairs or updates that could deter buyers. In our experience, buyers tend to shy away from homes that have issues listed such as leaks, roofing issues, and pests/rodent activity. Even if the issue is minor, addressing them upfront can make your home more attractive and prevent last-minute deal breakers. The more you can show potential buyers that you have crossed off of the inspection “to fix” list, the better. Consider:
Fixing structural or system-related issues like plumbing, electrical, or roofing problems.
Repairing any items related to leaks, pest or rodent activity and damage, and other items buyers expect to use such as fireplaces, doors, and decks
Refreshing paint with neutral, inviting colors to make spaces feel fresh and modern.
Replacing or refinishing flooring if carpets are worn out or hardwoods are scratched.
3. Declutter and Organize Before Packing
Taking the time to declutter before you actually start packing can make the moving process infinitely easier - with less items there is less to pack! Go through your home and decide what you will move, what items can be sold, and what items you might want to donate to clear up space in your moving truck.
4. Be Cautious with Homeowners Insurance Claims
Did you know that a claim can stay attributed to your home for 5 years? Before you list, avoid opening any new claims on your homeowners insurance unless absolutely necessary. Insurance claims are recorded in a database that buyers’ insurance providers may review. A recent claim will almost certainly drive up the insurance premium, making it more expensive or difficult for buyers to obtain coverage. This can deter buyers or even price some out of the home if the cost of insuring the home is too high. If an issue arises, consult with your real estate agent before filing a claim.
5. Set the Right Price with Recent Comps
Pricing your home correctly is crucial for attracting buyers and securing the best possible offer. Work closely with your real estate agent to analyze recent comparable sales (comps) in your neighborhood. Keep in mind that market conditions can change up until the day you list, so staying updated on new listings and sales is key to setting a competitive price.
6. Move Out and Stage Your Home Professionally
For the best presentation, plan to move out before listing your home. Having an empty home allows for an optimal deep cleaning to take place before staging furniture is moved in. Once cleaned, professional staging can help buyers visualize the space as their future home. Staged homes often sell faster and for higher prices than vacant or lived-in homes. Plus, you won’t have to stress about scheduling showings around your daily routine. Remember, the goal is to get the maximum amount of exposure to the right buyers to help your home sell quickly, and allowing agents to show the home at any time contributes to that goal.
7. Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and your home’s exterior sets the tone for potential buyers. Boost curb appeal by:
Power washing the driveway and walkways.
Adding fresh mulch, plants, or flowers to the landscaping.
Repainting or replacing the front door for a welcoming touch.
Cleaning windows to let in more natural light.
8. Work with an Experienced Real Estate Agent
A knowledgeable real estate agent can make all the difference in your selling experience. They will guide you through the process, help you market your home effectively, and negotiate the best deal possible. From listing strategy to closing, having the right professional by your side ensures a smoother and less stressful transaction. When interviewing agents, be sure to ask questions such as how many transactions they did the previous year, what their experience selling in your area is, and how they would propose to market your property. You want to ensure that you not only like your agent, but that they have the experience necessary to ensure you maximize your profits and have a stress-free experience!
Final Thoughts
Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful. Remember, there are always unforeseen circumstances that arise. But by preparing in advance, making smart updates, and working with a skilled agent, you can maximize your home’s value and sell with confidence. Follow this checklist to streamline the process and make your home stand out in the market. For more tips on selling your home, download my free digital home seller’s guide now.
If you're thinking about selling and need expert guidance, reach out today! I’d love to be your trusted guide as you navigate the process.