🏠 Things to Do When Selling a Home

Selling a home is a big decision — and often, an emotional one. Whether you’re moving to a larger place, relocating for work, or downsizing, it’s about more than just bricks and walls; it’s about closing one chapter and opening another.

But once you’ve made the decision to sell, preparation becomes key. The right steps — taken before your home even hits the market — can make all the difference in how fast it sells and how much it sells for. Here’s a complete guide from Keys2Day Insights to help you make the process smooth, successful, and rewarding.

1️⃣ Start with Preparation: Declutter and Deep Clean

First impressions matter — and when it comes to selling your home, they start the moment a buyer steps through the door. A clean, decluttered space allows buyers to picture themselves living there.

Start by going room by room and removing excess furniture, personal items, and anything that distracts from the space itself. Pack away family photos and keepsakes — you’re not erasing memories, you’re helping buyers imagine making their own.

Once you’ve decluttered, deep clean every corner: baseboards, ceiling fans, carpets, and windows. Consider professional cleaning services if needed, especially for high-traffic areas and upholstery.

✨ Tip: A bright, fresh-smelling home feels more inviting. Subtle scents like citrus or vanilla can make a surprisingly big difference during showings.

2️⃣ Make Small Repairs and Simple Upgrades

You don’t have to do a full renovation to make your home stand out — often, small updates bring the highest returns. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, chipped paint, and burnt-out lightbulbs.

If your budget allows, consider these high-impact upgrades:

• A fresh coat of neutral paint throughout the home

• New cabinet hardware in the kitchen and bathrooms

• Modern light fixtures to brighten dark spaces

• Fresh mulch and trimmed landscaping for curb appeal

These seemingly minor improvements help signal to buyers that your home has been cared for — and that can translate to stronger offers.

3️⃣ Price It Right from the Start

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when selling your home is pricing. A listing that’s overpriced can sit on the market longer and lose momentum, while one that’s underpriced could mean leaving money on the table.

Your agent will conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to evaluate similar properties that recently sold in your area. This helps set a realistic and competitive price based on location, size, condition, and market trends.

At Keys2Day, we emphasize data-driven pricing — balancing what buyers are willing to pay with the unique features of your property. The goal is to attract interest early and generate multiple offers where possible.

4️⃣ Stage Your Home for Success

Staging isn’t just about furniture placement — it’s about creating a feeling. The goal is to help buyers envision their lifestyle in your space.

If you’re living in the home while selling, start with what you have. Rearrange furniture to open up traffic flow, use natural light to highlight key features, and keep décor simple. For vacant properties, professional staging can make a big impact by showcasing the home’s potential.

Don’t forget curb appeal:

• Mow the lawn and add potted plants near the entrance.

• Repaint or clean your front door.

• Replace worn doormats and house numbers.

First impressions are lasting — and curb appeal can often be the difference between a drive-by and a showing request.

5️⃣ Market Strategically

Once your home is ready and priced right, the next step is to make sure the right people see it. That’s where marketing plays a crucial role.

A strong marketing plan should include:

• Professional photography (homes with professional photos get significantly more online views)

• Virtual tours or video walkthroughs to attract remote buyers

• Online exposure through MLS listings, real estate platforms, and social media

• Targeted ads to reach specific demographics and neighborhoods

The Keys2Day Team uses a combination of digital marketing, local exposure, and personalized networking to showcase your home to the right audience — maximizing both visibility and value.

6️⃣ Be Flexible with Showings

The more available your home is for showings, the faster it’s likely to sell. Buyers’ schedules vary — and sometimes, a spontaneous showing can lead to an offer.

Keep your home “show-ready” by maintaining cleanliness daily and having a plan for quick tidy-ups. Pets should be out of the house during showings, and lights should be turned on to create a welcoming feel.

A bit of flexibility goes a long way in helping your property make the best impression.

7️⃣ Review Offers Thoughtfully

When offers come in, it’s natural to focus on price — but there are other factors to consider. Review each offer’s terms, contingencies, and timeline carefully.

For example, a slightly lower offer with fewer contingencies or a cash option might be a better deal overall than a higher offer with strict financing requirements. Your agent will walk you through the pros and cons of each to ensure your decision aligns with your goals.

Once you accept an offer, the process moves into inspections, appraisals, and final paperwork. Having an experienced agent by your side ensures everything runs smoothly from contract to closing day.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home is both a financial and emotional journey. With careful preparation, smart marketing, and the right guidance, you can turn it into a rewarding experience that sets you up for your next move with confidence.

At Keys2Day, we help homeowners every step of the way — from pricing strategy and staging advice to negotiation and closing. Our mission is to make the process stress-free while ensuring you achieve the best possible results.

✨ Ready to sell your home? Contact Keys2Day today for a free home valuation and personalized selling plan designed around your goals.