Thinking about listing your home? 🏡 Whether you’re in Santa Clarita or anywhere in the Greater Los Angeles area, preparing your home the right way can make a huge difference in how quickly it sells — and for how much.
As a top-producing Santa Clarita Realtor® with over $150 million in sales, I’ve guided hundreds of sellers through this process. Here are the six key steps every homeowner should take before listing their property.
Listing your home for Sale and Preparing
Getting your property ready doesn’t just mean putting a sign in the yard. Buyers today are searching online first, comparing dozens of homes before deciding which ones to tour. That’s why presentation matters more than ever. These steps will ensure your home stands out, attracts the right buyers, and sells for top dollar.
1. Declutter Your Spaces
When it comes to real estate, less is more. Your home doesn’t have to be messy, but buyers want to focus on the space itself, not what’s inside it. Keep shelves minimal, clear off countertops, and aim for a clean, open look.
2. Hide Everyday Items
Before professional photos or showings, tuck away trash cans, shampoo bottles, paper towels, soap dispensers — and don’t forget to put the toilet seats down 🚽. These small details make your home look polished in person and online.
3. Deep Clean for a Fresh First Impression
A spotless home sells faster. I provide a cleaner for my listings, but I also recommend extra attention to windows, baseboards, and hidden corners. A fresh look — and scent — helps buyers connect emotionally with the home.
4. Remove Personal Photos
Since your home will be marketed all over the internet, it’s best to remove family photos. This not only protects your privacy but also helps buyers picture their own lives in your space.
5. Consider a Fresh Coat of Paint
Not every home needs paint, but neutral colors tend to attract more buyers and make spaces feel bigger and brighter. Before investing, ask your real estate expert (that’s me!) whether it’s worth it for your home specifically.
6. Make Minor Fixes Now, Save Later
Every home has little things that could be improved. From loose cabinet handles to small wall scuffs, addressing them upfront makes your home feel well-maintained and can save money after inspections. Since every property is unique, I provide a walkthrough and a personalized list of suggestions before you start repairs.
Final Thoughts: Preparing to Sell Your Home
Prepping your home before it hits the market is one of the smartest moves you can make. A well-presented property not only sells faster but often for a higher price.
If you’re considering selling in Santa Clarita or the surrounding areas, let’s connect. I’ll give you a customized home prep plan to make sure your property stands out from the competition.
