5 Simple Steps to Sell Your Home This Spring

by Scott Zielinski

Preparing to sell your home doesn't have to be challenging! It may seem like you have a long list of things to conquer, but we can get you started in just 5 simple steps:

STEP 1: Research

If you haven't already started researching your local housing market, you should check out sites like Realtor.com to see what homes have been listed and sold for in your neighborhood and area.

This is a great start to discover where your home's value may lie. That being said, we recommend connecting with a reputable local real estate agent to assist you in determining your home's value through comps! Which leads us to step 2...

STEP 2: Find a reputable real estate agent

While it may be tempting for some homeowners to list their home themselves in such a hot market, we would recommend finding a professional to help. (And not just because we are a real estate team!)

There are many reasons to utilize a real estate agent! Agents not only have many connections to potential buyers, but they will also ensure you get the most bang for your buck! They will hire the necessary professionals for photos and virtual tours of your home. Additionally, they are experienced in marketing on social media, real estate websites and the MLS. These factors alone will greatly improve your chances of getting the best offers that your home deserves.

STEP 3: Organize

Declutter. Move things to storage, if necessary. Get your home organized so that when it's time to stage and show your home, you're already a step ahead!

STEP 4: Depersonalize

You want future homebuyers to be able to picture themselves inside your home - it could be their new home soon! Start taking down knick knacks and family momentos. It's likely you won't be able to take everything down before you move, but you don't want your entire life story on display.

This is also the step where you say goodbye to the "antiques." If you have an older home, you may have outdated light fixtures, light switches, rugs or even shower doors. Consider replacing those ugly, old fixtures with something neutral and affordable (but not cheap). You don't need to go out and spend thousands on a brand-new chandelier... but be mindful of everything you have on display and how it may appeal to your future homeybuyers.

STEP 5: Staging and listing your home

If you want the best offers on your home, you absolutely need to stage your home! Consult with a professional. Get local recommendations and advice before you decide on who to hire.

Staged homes typically sell faster and receive better offers. People hire interior designers for their homes for a reason, and staging is essentially the same concept to make your home more appealing to homebuyers.

Once your home is staged, your real estate agent will likely schedule a time for photos and virtual tours to market your home on the MLS and other real estate websites.