How Do I Prepare My Home for Sale?

Selling your home is more than putting a “For Sale” sign in the yard—it’s about positioning your property to attract the right buyers and achieve top dollar. Whether you’re selling a Portland bungalow, a West Hills view home, or a modern condo along the river, the right preparation can make all the difference.

1. Start With a Pre-Listing Walkthrough

Before listing, invite your agent (that’s me!) to walk through your home with a buyer’s eye.
We’ll discuss what’s adding value, what may hold you back, and how to prioritize updates that will yield the highest return.
💡 Pro tip: Sometimes small adjustments—fresh paint, modern hardware, better lighting—create a big emotional impact.

2. Declutter and Depersonalize

Buyers want to imagine themselves in your home, not feel like they’re visiting yours.
Pack away personal photos, extra furniture, and knick-knacks. Portland buyers love light, airy, minimalist spaces that feel move-in ready.
If you’re staying in the home during showings, consider temporary storage or a garage organization system to maximize space.

3. Deep Clean and Refresh

A sparkling clean home shows pride of ownership.
Focus on high-touch areas: baseboards, windows, and kitchen appliances. Hire professionals for carpets or tile grout if needed.
🌿 Bonus: Adding subtle scent—like fresh linen or cedar—can create a calm, welcoming atmosphere without overwhelming the senses.

4. Make Cost-Effective Repairs

Handle minor repairs before listing—leaky faucets, sticky doors, chipped paint.
If buyers see deferred maintenance, they may assume there’s more hidden behind the walls. Proactive attention builds confidence and protects your price point.

5. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions start at the curb.
Trim landscaping, pressure wash walkways, and add fresh mulch or potted plants.
💐 In Portland’s climate, consider low-maintenance greenery that stays lush through the rainy months—ferns, hostas, or ornamental grasses.

6. Stage to Highlight Lifestyle

Whether professionally staged or styled with your own furniture, staging helps buyers connect emotionally.
Highlight the lifestyle—think cozy reading nooks, inviting patios, and clean work-from-home spaces.
Portland buyers love charm with functionality, so we’ll showcase both.

7. Professional Photos & Marketing

Once your home shines, it’s time to capture it beautifully.
I use professional photography, video, and lifestyle-based marketing that tells the story of your home. This approach helps buyers see themselves there—and drives more traffic online and in person.

🌿 So What?

Preparation isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about strategy.
When your home looks its best, buyers compete, your days on market shorten, and your final sale price often increases.

🏠 Ready to List?

Let’s schedule a pre-listing consultation to walk your property, identify value-boosting improvements, and create a step-by-step plan for success.

Sell with confidence. Sell with clarity, care, and communication.