Here’s a list of what I’m tackling now to make sure my house wows buyers by March. Follow along to make your home stand out too.
1. Update Appliances 
Outdated appliances can make a kitchen feel tired, so I took advantage of the Black Friday sales and swapped mine out for sleek stainless steel smart appliances. Plus my fridge broke (AGAIN) right on Thanksgiving so it just made sense. They’re stylish, energy-efficient, and appeal to today’s tech-savvy buyers. If your appliances are showing their age, consider an upgrade—it’s a smart investment.
2. Clean Like a Pro
No one wants to see a dirty house. I’m talking model-home levels of clean here. From scrubbing baseboards to shining windows, I’m making sure every nook and cranny is spotless. Bathrooms and kitchens, especially, need to sparkle. Remove & replace that gross caulking in the shower & scrub out any stains. My daughter bought me the viral steamer and we went to town cleaning cabinets, dirty doors, the bathroom, it's amazing! Roll up your sleeves and use some elbow grease.
Pro tip: hire a professional cleaning service if you’re short on time - Ask for my list of preferred vendors if you need some recommendations.
3. Declutter and Donate
I’ve been decluttering like a mad woman! Cleaning out my closets and cabinets and making regular trips to the local mission with things I no longer want or need. I'm not sure why I have so many bowls, but there is one of every color and size in my kitchen. And I certainly don't need a whole cabinet dedicated to water bottles.
Using the does it "Spark Joy" method…if I don't want to pack it up to take to the next house, it’s out the door. A clutter-free home feels bigger and more inviting—exactly what buyers are looking for. Getting my kids on board with this idea is a whole other story, lol.
4. Freshen Up with Paint
Nothing transforms a space like a fresh coat of paint. Stick with neutral tones to give buyers a blank canvas for imagining their own decor. If your walls are looking tired or your color palette is bold, now’s the time to break out the paint rollers. Touch up the paint on your baseboards, walls and doors where it is worn or dinged up.
I did paint my front door lavender, which may not be everyones favorite choice but I just love it, the color sparked JOY what can I say… 
5. Fix the Little Things
It's time to finally tackle that "honey-do" list. That leaky sink I’ve been ignoring? It’s finally getting fixed! Buyers notice small issues like dripping faucets or squeaky doors. Taking care of these now shows that the home has been well-maintained. 
Change out burnt light bulbs, paint the steps that are worn out.
Hire a handy-man to help you with things you don't have the time for or the knowledge to do yourself.
6. Boost Curb Appeal
First impressions matter! Trim trees, freshen up the flower beds, add a pop of color with seasonal flowers. Even small touches like a new doormat or freshly painted front door can make a huge difference.
7. Stage Like a Pro
I’ll be rearranging furniture to create open, inviting spaces and even borrowing a few decor items to highlight key features. Staging doesn’t have to be expensive—it’s all about making your home feel warm and welcoming. I can even do virtual staging if you plan to move out before you list it or just have a room you want to reimagine.
8. Consider a Pre-Home Inspection
I will be scheduling a pre-home inspection to identify any big-ticket items that buyers might have concerns with. This gives me insight into what else needs to be addressed before buyers bring in their own home inspector. It’s a proactive step that can save time and reduce surprises later. Ask me for my Preferred Vendors List for my top recommended inspectors.
9. Organize Paperwork
If you have maintenance records for appliances and home systems gather it all up! Buyers appreciate the transparency, and it’s one less thing to scramble for later. This will help you when it's time to fill out your Seller Disclosures too.
10. Hire Me for Expert Tips and Photos
As a full-service Realtor®, I’m here to help you every step of the way. I'd be happy come out and give you personalized tips for getting your home ready, and when its time to hit the market, I’ll arrange for professional photos that truly showcase your home’s best features.
You don’t have to do this alone—let’s make your home shine together!
