How to Prepare Your Home for Sale: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners in Irving Park
Selling a home in Irving Park or any desirable neighborhood requires preparation, strategy, and attention to detail. Whether you’re a longtime resident looking to downsize or moving for a new opportunity, properly preparing your home can help you sell faster and for top dollar.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get your home market-ready, including decluttering, deep cleaning, staging, curb appeal, and setting the right price. Plus, we’ve included FAQs to answer common homeowner concerns.
1. Declutter and Depersonalize Your Home
The first step in getting your home ready for sale is to declutter and depersonalize. Buyers want to envision themselves in your home, and excess furniture, personal items, and clutter can be distracting.
Decluttering Tips:
✅ Start Small – Focus on one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
✅ Clear Surfaces – Remove unnecessary decor, mail, and knick-knacks from countertops and shelves.
✅ Edit Closets – Store seasonal clothing and donate items you no longer need.
✅ Minimize Furniture – Consider storing oversized furniture to create a more spacious feel.
Depersonalizing Tips:
✅ Remove family photos, trophies, and personal collections.
✅ Take down political or religious items to create a neutral atmosphere.
✅ Replace bold decor with neutral tones to appeal to a wider audience.
💡 Pro Tip: Renting a storage unit or using your garage strategically can help keep your home uncluttered while preparing for showings.
2. Deep Clean Every Room
A spotless home gives buyers confidence that the property has been well maintained.
Cleaning Checklist:
✅ Floors & Carpets – Steam clean carpets and mop hardwood/tile floors.
✅ Windows & Mirrors – Clean windows inside and out for maximum natural light.
✅ Kitchen & Appliances – Deep clean the oven, microwave, refrigerator, and sink.
✅ Bathrooms – Scrub grout, clean mirrors, and replace old shower curtains.
✅ Baseboards & Ceiling Fans – Dusting and wiping these areas can make a big impact.
💡 Pro Tip: If deep cleaning feels overwhelming, hire a professional cleaning service for a top-to-bottom refresh before listing.
3. Make Necessary Repairs and Small Upgrades
Fixing small issues before listing can prevent buyers from negotiating for lower prices.
Repairs to Address:
✅ Patch holes and touch up paint on scuffed walls.
✅ Fix leaky faucets, running toilets, and loose cabinet handles.
✅ Repair or replace cracked tiles and worn-out grout.
✅ Ensure all lightbulbs are working and replace outdated fixtures.
✅ Check for signs of pest infestations, mold, or water damage.
Smart Upgrades That Pay Off:
✅ Repainting walls in neutral colors like white, beige, or light gray.
✅ Updating kitchen and bathroom hardware (handles, faucets, light fixtures).
✅ Replacing outdated cabinet knobs for a modern look.
✅ Upgrading curb appeal (more on that below).
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid major renovations unless absolutely necessary—most buyers prefer move-in-ready homes but want to customize big projects themselves.
4. Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see, so it needs to shine.
Curb Appeal Checklist:
✅ Lawn & Landscaping – Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and plant fresh flowers.
✅ Power Wash Exterior – Clean the siding, driveway, and walkways.
✅ Front Door Refresh – Repaint or replace your front door for a welcoming touch.
✅ Lighting Matters – Update porch lights and add solar path lighting.
✅ New Welcome Mat – A small touch that makes a big difference.
💡 Pro Tip: If you have a front porch, stage it with simple furniture and potted plants for extra charm.
5. Stage Your Home for Maximum Appeal
Home staging helps buyers visualize themselves living in the space. Even small adjustments can make a difference.
How to Stage Your Home Like a Pro:
✅ Arrange furniture to create open, functional spaces.
✅ Use neutral bedding, curtains, and decor to appeal to the masses.
✅ Add fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit to the kitchen.
✅ Use soft lighting to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
✅ Create a spa-like bathroom by rolling fresh towels and adding a scented candle.
💡 Pro Tip: If your home is vacant, consider virtual staging or renting furniture for key rooms like the living room and primary bedroom.
6. Take Professional Photos and Videos
Most buyers start their home search online, and high-quality photos are essential for making a strong first impression.
Photography Tips:
✅ Take daytime photos when natural light is at its best.
✅ Capture the best angles of each room.
✅ Highlight special features like fireplaces, kitchen islands, and outdoor spaces.
✅ If possible, include a video tour or 3D walkthrough.
💡 Pro Tip: Ask your real estate agent if they offer professional photography—it’s worth the investment!
7. Price Your Home Correctly
Overpricing can cause your home to sit on the market, while underpricing may leave money on the table.
How to Set the Right Price:
✅ Research comparable homes (comps) in your area.
✅ Consider local market conditions—is it a buyer’s or seller’s market?
✅ Get a professional appraisal if necessary.
✅ Work with an experienced real estate agent to determine the best price.
💡 Pro Tip: Homes priced correctly tend to sell faster and often receive multiple offers!
8. Prepare for Showings and Open Houses
Once your home is listed, be ready for showings at a moment’s notice.
Showing Prep Checklist:
✅ Keep surfaces clean and clutter-free.
✅ Open all blinds and turn on lights for a bright, airy feel.
✅ Remove pets and pet-related items (beds, bowls, litter boxes).
✅ Add a light scent (vanilla, citrus, or fresh linen).
✅ Step out during showings to let buyers explore freely.
💡 Pro Tip: Flexibility with showing times can help attract more serious buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to prepare a home for sale?
On average, 2-4 weeks is enough to declutter, clean, make minor repairs, and stage your home properly.
2. Should I make major renovations before selling?
No. Focus on cost-effective updates like fresh paint, minor repairs, and deep cleaning instead of full-scale renovations.
3. What are the biggest buyer turn-offs?
Cluttered or messy spaces
Strong odors (pets, smoke, mold)
Poor curb appeal
Overpriced homes
Outdated fixtures
4. Do I need to stage my home?
Staging isn’t required but can help your home sell faster and at a higher price. At the very least, declutter and arrange furniture strategically.
5. What if my home isn’t selling?
If your home isn’t getting offers:
✅ Reevaluate your price
✅ Improve listing photos
✅ Offer buyer incentives
✅ Make small updates to refresh the look
Final Thoughts
Selling your home in Irving Park doesn’t have to be stressful. By decluttering, cleaning, making minor upgrades, staging, and pricing correctly, you’ll increase your chances of selling quickly and for the best price.
Need expert guidance? Irving Park Life is here to help you navigate the selling process with ease. Contact us today to get started on your home-selling journey! 🏡🔑