Thinking of Selling? 6 Tips to Get Your Home Market-Ready
Selling a home is a major life event, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or just exploring your options in the Shawnee area or the broader Oklahoma City metro, the process can be a lot to manage. That’s why I’ve put together these 6 essential tips to get your home ready for a successful sale—backed by resources from the National Association of REALTORS®.
1. Find the Right Agent to Represent You
One of the most important steps in selling your home is finding an experienced and trusted REALTOR®. Not all agents are the same, and it’s important to choose someone who will advocate for you through every step of the process. A REALTOR® is held to a high ethical standard and has the expertise to ensure that your home stands out on the market. Here’s a resource to help you choose the right agent.
2. Consider Your Home’s Condition—A Pre-Sale Inspection Is an Option
A pre-sale inspection is a good option for some sellers, but it’s not the right fit for everyone. It’s something we should talk through together to determine whether it’s the best route for you. While discovering defects during an inspection could lead to disclosure requirements, it can also give us a clear picture of any potential issues so we can address them proactively, helping your home stand out to buyers. If we go this route, we’ll make sure to approach it strategically.
3. Making Repairs and Replacements
If there are major systems like your roof or HVAC that are due for repairs or replacement, it’s worth getting estimates for those before going on the market. Buyers will likely consider these costs when making an offer, and addressing them proactively can help avoid surprises during negotiations.
4. Cosmetic Updates Matter
While you don’t need to make major renovations, small updates can go a long way in creating a strong first impression. Simple tasks like decluttering, cleaning windows, freshening up paint, and improving curb appeal (landscaping, new light fixtures) can make your home more inviting. The goal is to create an environment where potential buyers can see themselves living.
5. Staging Your Home
Staging isn’t about spending a fortune on new furniture—it’s about highlighting your home’s best features. Whether you hire a professional stager or use your existing furniture, staging helps buyers visualize how the space can be used. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-staged home—it can make all the difference when it comes to selling.
6. Prepare the Paperwork
Having all your paperwork in order not only helps streamline the sale process but also supports your marketing efforts. One key element in my marketing strategy is our PR Home Book—a custom binder that stays in the home and is available for buyers’ agents and buyers to consult while touring. This book includes the MLS listing data, property condition disclosure, lead-based paint disclosure (if applicable), information about utilities, local schools, community connections, the home’s floor plan, and a list of features, improvements, and upgrades. By preparing these documents early, we can present your home in the best possible light and make it easier for buyers to envision themselves living there.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Selling a home is a big deal, but with the right prep and support from an experienced agent (that’s me!), you can make the process smooth and successful. If you’re considering selling your home in Shawnee or Central Oklahoma, let’s talk about how I can help you get top dollar and find the perfect buyer.
Feel free to download the Consumer Guide: Preparing to Sell Your Home for more tips straight from the National Association of REALTORS®.
