Buying a new construction home is exciting, but most people must sell their existing home first. This can seem overwhelming, but with some planning, preparation, and a simple checklist, you can feel confident about taking that next step. This checklist can make a difference in attracting potential buyers and maximizing your existing home’s sale price. This list will guide you through the best ways to prepare your home for sale, helping you create a lasting impression that will leave buyers eager to make an offer.

Upgrades and Repairs

Upgrades and Repairs: Fix any visible issues in your home. Leaky faucets, faulty electrical, cracked tiles, and other noticeable cosmetic issues should be repaired. Addressing these problems shows buyers that your homes have been meticulously maintained. Consider cosmetic upgrades, like repainting walls with neutral colors and replacing outdated fixtures, as these can significantly enhance your home’s appeal.

The Two “D’s”

Depersonalize and Declutter by removing clutter and personal items from your home to create a heightened sense of open space. This allows the buyer to picture themselves in your home. Personal photographs, collectibles, and unnecessary items should be packed away. Organize your closets and storage areas to showcase their space and capacity.

Deep Clean

Before listing your home on the market, it’s essential to do a deep clean. Scrub every inch, particularly windows, carpets, appliances, and all visible surfaces. A clean and well-maintained home creates a lasting impression and tells your buyers that this home has been well cared for.

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions are vital. Invest time in improving your home’s curb appeal. Cut and maintain the grass, trim hedges, and add flowers and potted plants to your entrance. Freshen up the exterior with repairs and paint, pressure wash the exterior of your home, and ensure the house numbers and mailbox are in good condition. A welcoming exterior sets an excellent impression for potential buyers.

Draw Attention to Key Features

Identify and highlight your home’s unique selling points and features. Items like architectural features, renovated areas, or energy-efficient upgrades should be showcased strategically. Use carefully placed lighting and open your curtains to maximize incoming natural light and make rooms appear more spacious. Stage each room purposefully, creating a clear function and flow of your home’s space.

Staging Your Home

Arrange your furniture, decor, and artwork to highlight your home’s best features. Create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your buyers. Properly staged homes sell faster and at higher prices than those left vacant or with mismatched furniture and decor.

Appropriate Pricing

Work with a qualified real estate agent or appraiser to determine the optimal listing price for your home. Pricing too high can discourage potential buyers, while pricing too low might undervalue your property. Consider market conditions, recent sales in your area, and your home’s unique features when setting the price. Your Real Estate agent will guide you every step of the way, but it’s good to have an idea from your research. 

Professional Photography

We can’t stress this enough. Invest or request that your realtor has professional real estate photography to capture high-quality images of your home. Online listings with attractive photos receive more views and generate increased interest from potential buyers. A skilled and professional photographer will capture the best angles and present your home in its most appealing light.

Marketing Your Property

Utilize various marketing channels to reach a broad audience of potential buyers. Online platforms, social media, and traditional methods such as yard signs and local advertisements can all be effective. Collaborate with your real estate agent to create a comprehensive marketing plan that targets the right audience and highlights.

Pull Together Important Documents

Gather all the essential documents related to your home, including specifics on the home warranty, renovation permits, survey reports, plot plans, surveys on your home’s lot, and your home’s maintenance records. Buyers appreciate having this information included, and it provides transparency and reassurance regarding the condition and history of your home.

Looking to buy a New Home?

Are you considering a new Hakes Brothers home? Hakes Brothers is a leading national builder known for innovative architecture, flexible floor plans, and personalized customer service. Hakes Brothers is a new home builder that builds semi-custom new homes in various El Paso area locations, San Antonio, Las Cruces, Albuquerque, and Kansas City. With an unwavering commitment to innovative new home design and personalized customer service, we have helped almost 5,000 families build homes that best fit their lifestyles. Our home-building reputation is significant in your decision to trust us as your home builder. Hakes Brothers strives to earn your highest recommendation. If you are looking for a beautiful new construction home in the new home communities we build in, or if you need to move quickly, we have the new home option for you.