Once we’ve agreed on the market price and marketing plan, the next step is to prepare your home for visitors. Give the house a thorough cleaning—drapes, carpets, furniture—and remove clutter so it feels open and “lived-in as little as possible.” You may also hire a home stager to improve room flow and decide which items to display or store away. A well-staged home can make a huge difference in how buyers perceive the space and its potential.

For the exterior, keep the lawn trimmed, bushes pruned, and lights working. Remove hoses, tools, and any flyers or newspapers from the front. Make sure walkways are clean and inviting, and add a few touches like a welcome mat or seasonal decorations to enhance curb appeal. Inside, open drapes, turn on lights, clean windows, clear counters and tables, make the beds, clean fixtures, and vacuum, including corners. Take out trash, and place pets safely away during showings.