Will Your Home Pass the Test?

Selling your home for top dollar takes more than just putting a sign in the yard. So, does your home pass the test? Or do you need to make a few changes? Let’s dive in and see what it takes to impress buyers and get the most for your home.

First Impressions Matter

Start with curb appeal. Does your home draw people in as they walk up? Fresh landscaping, clean mulch, vibrant flowers, and a freshly painted door make a huge difference. It might sound minor, but buyers notice these details immediately.

The 3 D’s: Declutter, Depersonalize, Deep Clean

• Declutter: Remove unnecessary items to create a clean, open feel.

• Depersonalize: Buyers need to picture themselves living there. Tuck away family photos and personal collections.

• Deep Clean: Go beyond the surface—baseboards, light switches, carpets, scuff marks, and those forgotten nooks all need attention.

Is your lawn green and inviting, or dry and patchy? Neutral walls, clean carpets, updated flooring, and modern countertops also help your home stand out from the competition.

The Smell Test

Every home has a smell—yes, even yours. Pets, cooking, and everyday life can leave lingering odors. Deep-clean carpets, air out rooms, and freshen up before showings. Remember, buyers notice everything.

Compare Your Home to the Competition

Take a hard, honest look. Are your cabinets still the same as 15 years ago? Is your furniture outdated? A little staging—whether full or partial—can make a home feel like a showroom.

The View

Finally, what’s outside your windows? Whether it’s hills, a green pasture, or even just a well-maintained backyard, it matters. If you’re staring at your neighbor’s bathroom window, make sure the interior of your home shines even brighter.

Time to Get Ready

Selling your home is about putting its best version forward. Most homes (even the best ones!) need a little work before listing. It took me six months to get my last home ready, and that’s perfectly normal.

If you’re wondering how to prep your home to sell for top dollar, we’re here to help. Reach out to us today at OK Homes and Lifestyle. Let’s get your home market-ready and sold for the price you deserve!

This is Dana Weyl with Coldwell Banker Select, OK Homes and Lifestyle Group—where we focus on Real Estate, Relationships, and Results.