Top 10 Tips to Get Your Home Market-Ready

By Sarah Wilk Realty & Property Management

Selling your home is a big decision — and a big opportunity.

Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, the goal is the same: to make a great impression and attract the right buyers quickly.

Getting your home market-ready doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can showcase your home’s best features and create that “wow” moment the moment a buyer walks in.

Here are my top 10 tips to help you get your home ready to shine.

1. Start with a Deep Clean

There’s no shortcut to that fresh, welcoming feeling buyers love. Clean every surface — from floors and windows to baseboards and ceiling fans. A spotless home tells buyers your property has been well cared for.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t forget overlooked spaces like closets, the garage, and under sinks. Buyers will look!

2. Declutter and Depersonalize

Less truly is more. Remove personal photos, excess décor, and unnecessary furniture to make rooms feel larger and more inviting. You want buyers to picture their life here, not yours.

Try to create a neutral, open canvas that sparks imagination — not distraction.

3. Tackle Minor Repairs

Those little “I’ll get to it someday” items can leave a lasting impression — and not the good kind. Replace burnt-out lightbulbs, tighten loose handles, patch small holes, and fix leaky faucets. Small details add up to big buyer confidence.

4. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. The exterior sets the tone before a buyer even walks in. Mow the lawn, edge the walkway, add fresh mulch, and plant seasonal flowers. A new welcome mat or freshly painted front door can go a long way.

✨ Think of your curb appeal as your home’s handshake — firm, friendly, and memorable.

5. Neutralize and Brighten

A bright, neutral color palette appeals to more buyers and makes your home feel clean and modern. If your walls have bold colors, consider repainting in warm, neutral tones. Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light — and add extra lighting where needed.

6. Refresh the Kitchen and Bath

You don’t have to do a full remodel to make an impact. Replace outdated hardware, swap in new light fixtures, or re-grout tile. Even small updates can give these key spaces a fresh, move-in-ready feel.

7. Stage for Success

Staging isn’t about perfection — it’s about perspective. Arrange furniture to highlight flow and space, and add small touches like throw pillows, fresh flowers, or neatly folded towels. These details help buyers feel at home the moment they step inside.

8. Eliminate Odors

A clean scent makes a lasting impression. Avoid heavy air fresheners and instead opt for subtle, natural scents — fresh linen, citrus, or light florals. And if you have pets, deep clean fabrics and carpets to eliminate lingering odors.

9. Highlight Your Home’s Best Features

Whether it’s a cozy fireplace, a spacious deck, or natural light pouring into your kitchen, make sure those features stand out. I often walk through homes with clients to identify what buyers will love most — and how to draw attention to it.

10. Partner with a Realtor Who Cares

Preparing your home for the market can feel like a lot — but you don’t have to do it alone. A professional Realtor can guide you through each step, recommend trusted contractors or stagers, and help you prioritize updates that truly pay off.

My role is to make the process clear, confident, and stress-free — so you can focus on your next chapter knowing your home is in great hands.

Final Thoughts

Getting your home market-ready is about showcasing its story — and making sure buyers can imagine their next chapter there. With a little preparation and professional guidance, you’ll not only attract more buyers but also achieve the best possible return on your investment.

If you’re thinking about selling your home and aren’t sure where to start, I’d love to help you create a plan that works for you.

📞 Contact Sarah Wilk Realty & Property Management! With genuine care, reliable guidance, and local expertise, I’ll help you prepare your home — and your peace of mind — for a successful sale.