Getting your home ready to sell doesn’t need to be overwhelming—but it does take a plan. A well-prepared home shows better, feels more inviting, and helps buyers move from interest to offer with fewer questions.
Here are 10 simple, important steps to help you prepare your home before it hits the market—along with why each one matters and tips to help you take action.
1. Tidy Up the Exterior
Why it matters: The front of your home is the first thing buyers see. A neat, well-kept exterior sets a positive tone before they even step inside.
What to do:
- Mow the lawn and trim bushes
- Sweep walkways and clean up the porch
- Wash the siding or power wash if needed
- Touch up the front door and check the house numbers and lights
Tips:
- Use a blower to clear leaves and debris from walkways
- A fresh doormat and a potted plant by the door go a long way
- Power wash rentals are available at most hardware stores
2. Clear the Clutter
Why it matters: Clutter makes rooms feel smaller and distracts from your home’s features. Clean, open spaces help buyers focus on the layout and flow.
What to do:
- Pack away anything you won’t need in the next 30–60 days
- Clear off counters, shelves, and tables
- Tidy up closets and storage areas
Tips:
- Use clear bins or baskets to group and store items neatly
- Donate items you no longer need before moving
- Storage pods or offsite units are helpful if you’re short on space
3. Keep It Neutral
Why it matters: Buyers need to picture themselves living in the space. Personal items can make it harder for them to connect with your home.
What to do:
- Take down family photos, kids’ artwork, and name signs
- Remove bold or very specific decor
- Keep colour schemes simple and neutral where possible
Tips:
- Store personal items in labeled bins for easy unpacking later
- Replace bold pillows or throws with soft neutrals
- Aim for a light, calm, hotel-like feel
4. Deep Clean
Why it matters: A clean home feels cared for. Buyers notice the details, and even small messes can leave a lasting impression.
What to do:
- Clean windows, inside and out
- Wipe down baseboards, vents, and light fixtures
- Scrub the kitchen and bathrooms
- Shampoo carpets or polish floors
Tips:
- Microfiber cloths and white vinegar go a long way
- Hire a professional cleaner if you’re short on time or energy
- Use baking soda and lemon for stubborn bathroom stains
5. Handle Small Fixes
Why it matters: Little repairs go a long way. Fixing small issues shows buyers the home has been looked after.
What to do:
- Fix squeaky doors, loose handles, or dripping faucets
- Patch small wall dents or paint chips
- Replace any burned-out lightbulbs or broken hardware
Tips:
- Use pre-mixed wall patch and a sanding sponge for quick repairs
- Keep extra lightbulbs and batteries handy for showing readiness
- Walk through each room with a notepad and make a repair checklist
6. Service the Essentials
Why it matters: A well-maintained furnace or ventilation system can make inspections go smoother and give buyers peace of mind.
What to do:
• Have the furnace serviced and change the filter
• Clean air vents and dryer ducts
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Tips:
- Book service 2–3 weeks before listing so there’s time to address issues
- Keep a record or receipt from your HVAC technician
- Use your vacuum’s hose to clean vent grilles
7. Get Your Documents Ready
Why it matters: Having key paperwork ready ahead of time helps keep the sale on track and avoids delays.
What to do:
- If you’re selling a house: Check your Real Property Report (RPR) and get it updated if needed
- If you’re selling a condo: Gather condo documents like bylaws, board minutes, reserve fund study, and budget
- Make sure there are no outstanding fees or pending assessments
Tips:
- As Your REALTOR®️ we can help review what’s needed for your property type
- For RPR updates, contact an Alberta Land Surveyor early
- Ask your condo manager or board how to access your documents
8. Understand Condo Rules (If Applicable)
Why it matters: Every building has its own rules about signage, showings, and timelines. Knowing them helps you plan ahead.
What to do:
- Ask about restrictions on open houses, lockboxes, or for-sale signs
- Check move-out or elevator booking requirements
- See if the condo board needs notice before listing
Tips:
- Some buildings require written approval before showings
- You may need to book elevator time in advance for move-out dates
- Add rule-checking to your early prep so there’s time to adjust plans
9. Brighten Things Up
Why it matters: Good lighting and fresh paint can make a space feel bigger, cleaner, and more updated—without major renovations.
What to do:
- Replace dim bulbs with bright, warm LED lights
- Repaint dark or scuffed walls with soft, neutral colours
- Let in natural light—open blinds and remove heavy curtains
Tips:
- Use 3000K LED bulbs for a warm, inviting glow
- Stick to whites, light greys, or beige tones for paint
- Clean window panes and tracks to enhance natural light
10. Final Prep Before Listing
Why it matters: Once your home goes live, first impressions happen fast—especially online.
What to do:
- Book professional photography or a virtual tour
- Do a final walk-through to make sure everything is clean and in place
- Set a showing schedule that works with your routine
Tips:
- Remove items like dish soap, laundry baskets, and personal hygiene products before photos
- Keep beds made, surfaces clear, and lights on for showings
- Have a showing checklist ready so you can prepare quickly
Getting your home ready to sell doesn’t mean doing everything, it means doing the right things. These 10 steps help your home make a strong first impression, avoid unnecessary stress, and create a smooth experience for you and your future buyer.
