Quick answer: To get your home ready to sell, declutter and depersonalize, finish small repairs, deep clean, brighten the curb appeal and make sure every room has a clear purpose. Skip big remodels unless your agent says they'll pay off. Great photos and the right price do the rest.
Most sellers think they need to do a lot more than they actually do. Here's the simple checklist I give my sellers.
⭐️ To ensure my sellers get TOP dollar, when we work together, I give you a very detailed custom photo and video prep checklist, as well as a general one. This has been fine tuned over many years of experience to get you the best results.
1. Declutter and depersonalize
Clear off counters, tables and dressers
Pack away most family photos and collections
Clean out closets so they look roomy
Remove extra furniture so rooms feel bigger
Tip: start packing now. You're moving anyway!
2. Take care of small repairs
Fix leaky faucets and running toilets
Replace burned-out bulbs
Patch nail holes and touch up paint
Fix sticky doors, loose handles and broken screens
Small fixes tell buyers the home has been cared for.
3. Deep clean everything
Windows, baseboards, light fixtures, grout and appliances. A professional cleaning before photos is one of the best values in home selling.
4. Boost your curb appeal
Mow, edge and pull weeds (or shovel and salt in winter)
Add fresh mulch or a couple of potted plants
Clean the front door and update the house numbers if needed
Make sure the outdoor lights work
5. Think about neutral paint
If a room has a very bold color, a fresh coat of a soft neutral can help buyers picture their own things in the space.
6. Give every room a purpose
That "catch-all" room should look like an office, guest room or workout space. Buyers want to see how they'd use it.
7. Gather your paperwork
Collect receipts for updates like a new roof, furnace or windows, plus warranties and manuals. Most Wisconsin sellers also fill out a Real Estate Condition Report, and I'll walk you through it.
What to skip
Big kitchen or bath remodels rarely pay back fully before a sale. Talk with me before spending big. Often a deep clean and a few small fixes give you a better return.
Then let the marketing do its job
Once your home is ready, professional photos & video, and a strong launch plan make it shine online. My listings average 11,000+ views, and since 2019, none of my sellers has needed a price reduction.
FAQs
Should I renovate my house before selling?
Usually not a big remodel. Small repairs, cleaning, decluttering and fresh paint tend to give the best return.
Do I have to fill out a Real Estate Condition Report in Wisconsin?
Most Wisconsin home sellers do, and it helps protect you as a seller as well. I can explain whether it applies to you and help you complete it for your situtation.
When should I start getting my home ready to sell?
Ideally at least a few weeks before you plan to list, so there's time for repairs, cleaning and photos. Earlier planning, the better!
Thinking about selling? See how I market homes or find out what your home is worth.
About the author
Kaeley Simek, REALTOR® helps buyers and sellers across Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington, Kenosha and Walworth Counties. She's a Real Trends Verified top 1.5% agent nationally. In her words: “I take great pride in doing everything I can to give you the ultimate buying or selling experience. My top values are communication, honesty, kindness and having the heart of a teacher: guiding you and explaining your options so you can make great decisions. I’m extremely experienced with unique and tough challenges, and I love to negotiate.” Questions? Call or text 414-501-7880 or send her a message. She replies within 2 hours (before 8 pm).
This article is general information, not legal, tax or lending advice. Loan programs and rules change, so confirm details with your lender and agent.
