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PREPARING YOUR HOME TO SELL AA Practical Practical Guide Guide to to Creating Creating aa Strong Strong First First Impression Impression

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WELCOME

UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME

VACANT OR OCCUPIED?

WHAT BUYERS NOTICE MOST

SHIFTING FROM LIVING TO SELLING

SHOULD YOU GET A PRE-LISTING INSPECTION?

PREPARING YOUR HOME: WHERE TO BEGIN

GENERAL PREPARATION & REPAIRS CHECKLIST

CURB APPEAL & OUTDOOR SPACES CHECKLIST

CLEANING CHECLIST

DECLUTTER & DEPERSONALIZE CHECKLIST

PAINT, DÉCOR, FURNITURE & LIGHTING CHECKLIST

FLOORING CHECKLIST

PRE-LISTING HOME INSPECTION CHECKLIST

SHOWING PREPARATION CHECKLIST

DOCUMENT PREPARATION CHECKLIST

THE HOME-SELLING JOURNEY

9 g Y p n I g = ccg m } =Y}g Preparing your home for the market can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to mean completing a major renovation or making every room perfect. The goal is to present a home that feels clean, well maintained, inviting, and easy for buyers to imagine as their own. This guide is designed to help you: Some recommendations may not apply to your home, budget, or timeline. Before beginning large projects or expensive updates, talk with your real estate agent. They can help you focus on the changes most likely to influence buyers in your market. Identify the areas that deserve attention Prioritize repairs and improvements Simplify and stage each space Prepare for photography and showings Gather important property information Move toward listing day with confidence

Stacy Durbin

Semonin REALTORS® President

www.semonin.com

@( <=? ( ( ? F "@ - I-@< -$ Online home-value tools can provide a convenient starting point, but they do not always reflect what buyers may be willing to pay for your home. Automated estimates rely largely on public records and computer-generated data. They may not recognize renovations, property condition, unique features, lot characteristics, or differences between nearby homes.

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An automated valuation uses available public information and recent market data to create a general estimate. Because each website uses its own formula and data sources, values may vary significantly.

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A real estate agent can add current listing information, recent sales, neighborhood activity, and local market context that may not be included in an automated estimate.

Y Y p¡g $Y |g Y}¤ p A Comparative Market Analysis, or CMA, provides a more personalized review of your home. Your agent may evaluate: A home’s value is ultimately influenced by the market. Your agent will help you understand the data and develop a pricing strategy that supports your goals. Recent comparable sales Current competing listings Location and lot characteristics Square footage and layout Property condition Improvements and renovations Buyer activity within the price range

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Both vacant and occupied homes can sell successfully. The better option depends on the property, your circumstances, and how effectively the home is prepared and presented.

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Furniture can help buyers understand a room’s size, purpose, and layout. A thoughtfully arranged home may also feel warmer and more inviting. However, an occupied home requires ongoing effort to keep rooms clean, organized, and ready for showings.

Helpful Priorities

Remove excess furniture Reduce personal items Keep surfaces and floors clear Organize closets and storage areas Create a consistent showing routine

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A vacant home can be easier to clean, maintain, and show on short notice. Buyers can also move through the property without personal belongings distracting from the space. However, empty rooms may feel smaller or make it difficult for buyers to understand how furniture will fit.

Helpful Priorities

Maintain utilities and comfortable temperatures Keep landscaping and exterior areas maintained Address odors, dust, and signs of vacancy Consider selective staging for important rooms Visit the property regularly to check its condition

The goal is not simply to have furniture or an empty space. It is to help buyers clearly understand the home and imagine how they could live there.

G ? @I <= (-? $-=? Buyers are often influenced by the overall condition and feeling of a home rather than one individual feature. A single outdated item may not discourage them, but a long list of small repairs can make the property feel poorly maintained or more expensive to own.

1 CONDITION FIND A TRUSTED REAL ESTATE AGENT ..

Buyers notice items that appear broken, damaged, unfinished, or neglected. Look for: Leaking faucets Loose hardware Cracked caulk Damaged screens Missing trim Burned-out bulbs Doors or drawers that do not close properly

1 CLEANLINESS .

A clean home often feels newer, brighter, and better cared for. Pay special attention to: Kitchens and bathrooms Floors and baseboards Windows and mirrors Light fixtures and ceiling fans Appliances Storage areas

1 SPACE FLOW .

Buyers want to understand how each room functions. Remove excess furniture and arrange rooms so there are clear walking paths and an obvious purpose.

1 LIGHT .

Open blinds, clean windows, and use consistent lighting to help spaces feel brighter and more welcoming.

1 FIRST IMPRESSIONS .

The exterior, entry, scent, temperature, and overall atmosphere shape a buyer’s opinion before they have seen the entire home. The goal is not perfection. It is to reduce distractions and help buyers focus on the home’s strongest features.

= ? ( <-$ " F ( ?- = "" ( A home is personal. It holds memories, routines, and belongings that reflect the people who live there. Preparing to sell means gradually shifting from creating a home for yourself to presenting it for its next owner.

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Buyers will not experience the home exactly as you do. They are evaluating condition, space, function, value, and how the property may fit their own lives.

Your real estate agent can help you view the home more objectively and identify details you may no longer notice.

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Depersonalizing does not mean removing every sign of life. The home should still feel warm and inviting. Aim to: Reduce family photos Store collections and highly personal décor Clear excess items from surfaces Simplify shelves and display areas Keep a few neutral accessories

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Showings may occasionally happen with limited notice. Creating a daily routine can make it easier to leave the home prepared.

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Your memories are meaningful, but they do not directly determine the home’s market value. Buyers will compare the property with other available homes and consider its condition, location, features, and price. Preparing emotionally as well as physically can make the selling process feel more manageable.

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A home inspection is not required before listing, but it may be helpful in certain situations. A pre-listing inspection can provide a clearer understanding of the home’s condition and identify concerns that could arise after an offer is accepted.

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A pre-listing inspection may help you:

A pre-listing inspection may also uncover issues that require further evaluation or disclosure.

Identify major concerns early Compare repair estimates without a short contract deadline Decide which repairs to complete Prepare for likely buyer questions Price the home with more information Provide documentation for completed repairs Reduce surprises during the transaction

The buyer may still choose to complete an independent inspection, and the two inspectors may not identify the exact same items. Before scheduling an inspection, discuss the property with your real estate agent. They can help you weigh the potential advantages, costs, timing, and disclosure requirements. A pre-listing inspection is not right for every seller, but it can be a useful planning tool when it supports the overall selling strategy.

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Not every improvement deserves the same amount of time or money. Before starting projects, walk through the property with your real estate agent and organize recommendations into four categories.

$ ee g Items that may affect safety, function, financing, inspections, or a buyer’s confidence. Examples: Active leaks Electrical concerns Broken systems Damaged roofing Moisture problems Safety hazards

=o }e ¡g Items that noticeably affect the home’s presentation or suggest deferred maintenance. Examples: Damaged paint Worn caulk Broken screens Overgrown landscaping Stained carpet Poor lighting

(pcg ? @ eY g Smaller improvements that may refresh the home if the budget and timeline allow. Examples: Updated hardware New light fixtures Fresh mulch Simple landscaping Neutral décor New towels or bedding

"gY¡g Projects that are unlikely to provide enough benefit to justify the cost, time, or disruption.

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Small maintenance issues can add up quickly in a buyer’s mind. Address visible problems before listing so the home feels cared for and ready to enjoy.

Replace burned-out bulbs indoors and outside. Repair leaking faucets and running toilets. Fix doors, drawers, and cabinets that do not open or close properly. Refresh caulk around tubs, showers, sinks, and toilets. Repair damaged window and door screens. Patch nail holes, cracks, and minor wall damage. Replace worn weather stripping. Repair loose or damaged tile. Tighten loose handles, knobs, railings, and hardware. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Replace detector batteries as needed. Clean air vents and replace HVAC filters. Confirm appliances are operating properly. Check that windows and exterior doors open, close, and lock. Remove visible water stains after addressing the source. Schedule professional repairs for concerns beyond routine maintenance.

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The exterior creates the first impression. Buyers should feel that the property is maintained before they reach the front door.

Mow the lawn and edge sidewalks. Trim trees, shrubs, and overgrown plants. Weed flower beds and add fresh mulch if needed. Remove dead plants, leaves, branches, and debris. Clean the front porch and entry. Wash or repaint the front door if needed. Clean exterior light fixtures and replace burned-out bulbs. Power wash walkways, patios, decks, and siding where appropriate. Clean or repair outdoor furniture. Remove excess toys, tools, hoses, and equipment. Check gutters and downspouts. Confirm downspouts direct water away from the home. Inspect siding, trim, windows, and roofing for visible damage. Repair damaged or missing shingles, siding, or trim. Clean windows and exterior glass. Hide trash and recycling containers when possible. Maintain pools, fences, sheds, and other exterior features.

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Vacuum carpets and rugs.

Clear countertops.

Mop hard-surface flooring.

Clean appliances inside and out.

Dust furniture, baseboards, blinds, vents, and ceiling fans.

Polish appliance surfaces.

Wash windows and mirrors.

Clean cabinets and drawers.

Wipe light switches, doors, and handles.

Organize the pantry.

Clean upholstery and cushions.

Wash and put away dishes.

Empty trash and recycling containers.

Empty the dishwasher and sink.

Clean window coverings. Remove cobwebs. Address odors at the source.

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Y o Deep clean tubs, showers, sinks, and toilets. Clean tile, grout, mirrors, and glass. Replace worn shower curtains and bath mats. Organize drawers, cabinets, and linen closets. Display clean towels.

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Clutter can distract buyers, make rooms feel smaller, and raise concerns about storage. Simplifying the home helps buyers focus on the property itself.

Clear mail, paperwork, toys, shoes, and everyday clutter. Remove excess family photos and portraits. Store collections and highly personal décor. Pack items you will not need before moving. Remove off-season clothing from closets. Reduce books and decorative items on shelves. Clear excess items from tables, desks, and countertops. Organize closets so floors and shelves are visible. Organize cabinets and storage areas. Remove excess furniture from crowded rooms. Store packed boxes neatly. Keep garages and basements organized and accessible. Put away jewelry, medication, documents, and valuables. Remove pet supplies when possible. Label and organize items going into storage.

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Simple, neutral presentation can help the home appeal to a wider range of buyers. Furniture should help buyers understand a room’s function and flow.

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Repair cracks, holes, and wall damage. Touch up chipped or scuffed paint. Repaint highly personalized or damaged walls if recommended. Remove worn or outdated wallpaper where appropriate. Keep bedding, curtains, and rugs simple. Reduce bold patterns that dominate a room. Keep décor minimal but welcoming. Use a few neutral accessories or fresh greenery. Remove décor that blocks windows or architectural features.

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Remove excess or oversized furniture. Arrange furniture to create clear walking paths. Give each room an obvious purpose. Use furniture to define areas in open-concept spaces. Stage empty rooms when it supports the marketing plan. Make sure each room has adequate lighting. Replace burned-out bulbs. Use consistent bulb temperatures. Open curtains and blinds. Clean light fixtures and lamps. Update highly dated permanent fixtures if recommended.

"--< ( Flooring has a strong effect on how clean, maintained, and move-in ready a home feels.

Inspect flooring for stains, damage, loose pieces, or excessive wear. Vacuum and professionally clean carpets if needed. Remove odors from carpeting and rugs. Mop and polish hard-surface floors. Repair loose tile, planks, or transitions. Replace badly damaged flooring when appropriate. Refinish hardwood floors if recommended and financially practical. Use neutral flooring when replacement is necessary. Remove or replace worn area rugs. Clean flooring beneath movable furniture.

Before replacing flooring, talk with your real estate agent. Cleaning, repairing, or offering a pricing allowance may make more sense than installing something new.

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Whether or not you schedule a professional pre-listing inspection, reviewing the home’s major systems and visible condition can help you anticipate questions.

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Are the heating and cooling systems operating properly? Is the water heater functioning normally? Are there known electrical concerns? Are there plumbing leaks or drainage problems? Are there visible roof concerns? Are there dips, slopes, or unusual movement in the floors? Are there cracks or water stains on walls or ceilings? Has the home had mold or mildew concerns? Are windows in good condition? Do windows and doors open, close, and lock? Are gutters clean and functioning? Do downspouts direct water away from the foundation? Are the basement or crawl space dry and accessible? Are decks, stairs, and railings secure? Are major appliances operating?

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= -G ( 9< 9 < ? -( A simple showing routine can help you leave the home ready for buyers without starting from scratch each time.

gm g Yco =o ¢p n Make beds and straighten rooms. Put away dishes, laundry, mail, and everyday clutter. Wipe kitchen and bathroom surfaces. Empty visible trash containers. Open curtains and blinds. Turn on lights throughout the home. Adjust the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Remove or safely contain pets. Put away pet food, bowls, litter boxes, and toys when possible. Secure valuables, medication, and personal documents. Clear vehicles from the driveway when possible. Close toilet lids. Check mirrors, glass, and stainless-steel surfaces. Make sure the entry is clean and inviting. Minimize strong scents, candles, and air fresheners. Leave before buyers arrive.

For safety, do not allow unexpected visitors to tour the property without an appointment. Direct them to contact your real estate agent.

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- @$ (? 9< 9 < ? -( Gathering property information early can help your agent prepare the listing, answer buyer questions, and keep the transaction moving smoothly.

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Deed or ownership information Existing title insurance policy Property survey Mortgage or home-equity loan information Property tax records Homeowners insurance information Homeowners association documents Utility information Appliance manuals and warranties Roof, HVAC, and water-heater records Receipts for major repairs Renovation and improvement records Permits for additions or renovations Pest, termite, or radon reports Septic-system information Well records or water tests Pool, fireplace, chimney, or specialty-system records Rental, lease, or solar agreements Property access codes, keys, and remotes

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Preparing the home is one part of a larger process. Your real estate agent will guide you through each stage and help keep the details moving forward.

1. Meet with your agent: Discuss your goals, timing, property, and next move. 1. Review the home: Evaluate condition, improvements, preparation needs, and market position. 1. Develop the plan: Prioritize repairs, staging, pricing, photography, and the target listing date. 1. Complete preparation: Clean, declutter, repair, organize, and stage the property. 1. Finalize listing details: Complete disclosures, listing documents, property information, and showing instructions. 1. Photograph & market: Create professional visuals and launch the marketing strategy. 1. Begin showings: Keep the home prepared while your agent coordinates appointments and collects feedback. 1. Review offers: Compare price, financing, contingencies, concessions, timing, and other terms. 1. Go under contract: Complete inspections, appraisal, buyer financing, title work, and contract deadlines. 1. Prepare for closing: Complete agreed-upon repairs, move belongings, prepare for the final walkthrough, and transfer possession. 1. Close the sale: Sign the final documents, receive the proceeds, and officially transfer ownership.

From the first walkthrough to the closing table, your agent is there to provide guidance, communication, and support.