6 Tips for Living in a Home That’s For Sale

Just because you’re selling, doesn’t mean you can’t still “live” in your own home – but there are a few things you might want to do differently while you’re waiting. Check out our tips for living in a home that’s for sale below. Not only will they help your home sell faster, but they’ll also make your upcoming move easier.

6 TIPS FOR LIVING IN A HOME THAT’S FOR SALE

• Clean Everything

• De-Clutter and De-Personalize

• Get Packing

• Utilize Storage

• Keep Your Kitchen and Bathrooms in Mind

• Be Ready!

1. Clean Everything

The first thing you’ll want to start on the moment you list your home is cleaning it from top to bottom – and keeping it that way. Nothing will turn buyers off faster than dust bunnies rolling around on the floor. Aside from just the regular vacuuming and dusting, you’ll want to clean your carpets, windows, inside cabinets and cupboards, appliances, and more.

Of course, this can take a big chunk of time out of your schedule so you may want to consider hiring a professional cleaning team to do the nitty-gritty for you. A spotless home not only looks appealing but also gives buyers the impression that it’s well-maintained.

2. De-clutter and De-personalize

While you’re cleaning, make an effort to de-clutter as much as possible. Even the most organized home can look messy if you simply have too much stuff in one area. For example, a closet overflowing with clothes (buyers check closets too!) or too many knick-knacks on display can make your home look crowded.

Speaking of knick-knacks, you’re better off removing personal items such as photos, personal mementoes, toys (children’s and pets), cards, etc. It’s harder for a buyer to picture themselves living in your home if there’s a lot of “you” around.

3. Get Packing

Since you’re already taking time to remove unnecessary and/or personal items, why not pack them up while you’re at it? This will pay off when you sell as you’ll already be ahead of the game. Other items you may want to consider packing up include seasonal items, extra linens, dishes, etc.

Be sure to label all your items and, if possible, put them in storage (that brings us to our next point!). Early packing means less stress when the big moving day finally arrives.

4. Utilize Storage

Did you know, in addition to offering stellar packing and moving services, a good moving company will be able to help you with storage solutions? It’s true! Consider reaching out to your local movers to see how they can help you get a head start on your move.

You’ll be happy to have your extra stuff out of the way and it will make your home look better to buyers. Plus, less clutter means buyers can better visualize the space and its potential.

5. Keep Your Kitchen and Bathrooms in Mind

Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. Anything you can do to keep these areas looking clean and fresh while you’re waiting for a sale is likely to pay off. Make sure the cupboards are clean and organized.

Consider a new coat of paint and/or a fresh layer of grout. Make necessary repairs to things like leaky faucets or a noisy bathroom fan. These changes are inexpensive and will go a long way in making your home appealing.

6. Be Ready for Anything

While most home viewings are scheduled ahead of time through a realtor, you may have to drop everything and leave your home for an impromptu showing. Prepare yourself by planning ahead. Have an idea of where you, your children, and pets will go while the home is being viewed.

Keep a "go bag" ready with essentials and a plan for quick clean-up. Flexibility and readiness can make the difference in catching that perfect buyer.

For more moving and packing help, grab a free copy of our moving checklist or visit our blog! Let’s make your move smooth and stress-free.