Preparation is everything when it comes to selling your home faster, for more money, and with greater satisfaction.
To support this, I use a home staging guide that I’ve developed over the years. Some homes are naturally show-ready, while others need more hands-on work. Either way, providing thoughtful guidance sets a high standard and gives clients the leadership they need. Here are five strategies I use to help clients prepare their homes for top dollar:
1. Curb appeal. Curb appeal should never be an afterthought. First impressions matter, and that starts with the front door. If the client is not able to spend money on improvements, I may offer to buy a new doormat, paint the front door, or replace the door knocker. Sometimes I cover these upfront as part of my marketing efforts and get reimbursed at closing.
“Preparation is the foundation of a faster sale and a higher price.”
2. Declutter completely. Clutter distracts from the property’s features. Remove anything that doesn’t serve the space. Whether you donate, store, or sell their belongings, the goal is to help buyers focus on the home, not the stuff in it.
3. Maximize sunlight. Natural light is one of the easiest ways to make a home feel larger and more inviting. Make sure blinds are open during showings and that the home is as bright as possible. Most homes are built with a boxy layout, and letting in light opens up the space and lifts the overall mood.
4. Prepare the home for the season. If it’s hot outside, run the air conditioning. If it’s cold, turn on the heat. Even in vacant homes, setting the right temperature creates a more comfortable environment. It helps buyers stay longer, feel good about the space, and connect emotionally.
5. Have a plan - a clear plan for how to present your home. That includes how to stage it, how to arrange furniture, and what to remove. I sometimes bring in a professional. I invest thousands of dollars each year in staging because I believe in the power of marketing and presentation.