Five Things to Do Before You List Your Home

Most of the work that gets a home sold happens before the sign goes in the yard. A few weeks of preparation can mean more showings, stronger offers and fewer surprises once you're under contract. Here's where I'd start.

1. Know your numbers

Before you pick a list price, find out what similar homes near you have actually sold for, not just what they were listed at. A comparative market analysis gives you that picture. It also helps to call your lender for a mortgage payoff figure, so you know what you'll walk away with after the sale.

2. Declutter, then deep clean

Buyers need to picture their own things in your space. Pack up extra furniture, personal photos and anything sitting on counters. Then clean like you're expecting company: windows, baseboards, light fixtures and carpets. It's one of the cheapest ways to make a home show better.

3. Take care of the small repairs

A dripping faucet, a sticky door or a burned-out bulb seems minor, but buyers notice, and a pile of small issues can make them wonder what else has been put off. Fix what you can and touch up scuffed paint. If you'd like to know about bigger issues ahead of time, a pre-listing inspection can help you decide what to repair and what to disclose.

4. Gather your paperwork

Pull together the documents buyers and their agents usually ask about:

• Recent utility bills, so buyers can estimate monthly costs
• Receipts and dates for updates like a new roof, furnace or water heater
• Warranties and manuals for appliances that stay with the house
• HOA documents, if your home is in an association

Ohio sellers of most homes also fill out a Residential Property Disclosure Form describing known conditions of the property. Having your records ready makes that form easier to complete accurately.

5. Plan for showings

Showings go more smoothly when you've thought ahead. Decide where pets will go, how much notice you need, and how you'll keep the house ready on busy weekdays. A simple daily routine, like a quick wipe-down and making the beds each morning, goes a long way.

Thinking about selling?

If you're planning a move in Northeast Ohio, I'm happy to walk through your home with you, talk about timing and put together a pricing plan. The consultation is free and there's no obligation.