Preparing Your Home for Market:
A Room-By-Room Checklist to Help You Sell Faster
Selling your home is all about first impressions. Buyers decide how they feel within seconds of walking through the door and thoughtful preparation can be the difference between just listed and just sold. Use this room‑by‑room checklist to present your home at its absolute best and maximize its market appeal.
Whole‑Home Basics (Start Here)
Before tackling individual rooms, take care of these essentials:
☐ Declutter: Remove excess furniture, personal items, and anything that makes spaces feel cramped.
☐ Deep clean: Floors, baseboards, windows, light fixtures, and vents should sparkle.
☐ Neutralize: Consider light, neutral paint colors to appeal to the widest range of buyers.
☐ Repair: Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, loose handles, and chipped paint.
☐ Lighting: Replace burnt‑out bulbs and use consistent, warm lighting throughout.
Entryway & Hallways
Your entry sets the tone for the entire showing.
☐ Clear shoes, coats, and bags from sight
☐ Add a welcoming touch (mirror, simple artwork, or plant)
☐ Ensure doors open smoothly and locks function properly
☐ Clean doormats and wipe down the front door
Living Room
This is where buyers imagine relaxing and entertaining.
☐ Arrange furniture to highlight space and flow
☐ Remove oversized or unnecessary pieces
☐ Clean upholstery, vacuum rugs, and dust surfaces
☐ Style with minimal décor (pillows, throws, greenery)
☐ Open curtains or blinds to maximize natural light
Kitchen
Often the most important room for buyers, details matter here.
☐ Clear countertops (leave only 1–2 decorative items)
☐ Clean appliances inside and out
☐ Scrub sinks, backsplashes, and cabinet fronts
☐ Organize pantry and drawers
☐ Remove magnets, papers, and personal items from fridge
Dining Room
Even small dining areas should feel intentional.
☐ Set the table simply or keep it clear
☐ Ensure chairs are sturdy and evenly spaced
☐ Clean light fixtures and mirrors
☐ Remove extra furniture that crowds the space
Bedrooms
Buyers should feel calm, comfortable, and able to picture themselves here.
☐ Make beds with neutral, coordinated bedding
☐ Clear nightstands and dressers
☐ Remove personal photos and memorabilia
☐ Organize closets (buyers will look)
☐ Ensure curtains and blinds open easily
Bathrooms
Cleanliness is non‑negotiable in this space.
☐ Scrub toilets, tubs, showers, and sinks
☐ Replace worn shower curtains and bath mats
☐ Clear counters of personal toiletries
☐ Add fresh towels and simple décor
☐ Fix dripping faucets and ensure fans work
Home Office / Bonus Rooms
Show flexibility and function.
☐ Define the room’s purpose clearly
☐ Hide cords and organize desks
☐ Remove clutter and excess furniture
☐ Ensure good lighting and neutral décor
Laundry Room
Small spaces still leave a big impression.
☐ Clean washer and dryer surfaces
☐ Store detergents and supplies neatly
☐ Wipe down shelves and cabinets
☐ Remove laundry baskets during showings
Garage & Storage Areas
Buyers are looking for space, show it off.
☐ Sweep floors and remove trash
☐ Organize tools and storage bins
☐ Clear pathways and visible clutter
☐ Ensure garage door opens smoothly
Outdoor Spaces
Curb appeal draws buyers in before they ever step inside.
☐ Mow lawn, trim bushes, and remove weeds
☐ Clean walkways, porches, and patios
☐ Store hoses, toys, and tools neatly
☐ Add simple outdoor seating or potted plants
☐ Power‑wash siding if needed
Final Showing‑Day Touches
☐ Open blinds and turn on lights
☐ Set thermostat to a comfortable temperature
☐ Take out trash and recycling
☐ Add subtle, fresh scents (avoid overpowering fragrances)
☐ Do a last walk‑through for clutter
Ready to List with Confidence
Preparing your home for market doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By tackling one room at a time, you’ll create a clean, inviting space that buyers can instantly connect with, helping your home sell faster and for top value.
If you’d like personalized advice or a professional walk‑through before listing, our team is here to help every step of the way.