When preparing to sell your home, creating a clean and inviting space is key to attracting potential buyers. Decluttering and depersonalizing help buyers envision themselves in the home, increasing the chances of a quick and profitable sale. Here’s how to get started.

1. Start with a Plan

Decluttering an entire home can feel overwhelming, so break it down room by room. Make a checklist and set realistic goals for each space. A helpful resource for organizing your home is Becoming Minimalist, which offers great tips on simplifying your space.

2. Remove Personal Items

Buyers need to imagine themselves living in the home, so pack away personal items such as:

• Family photos
• Unique artwork or collectibles
• Trophies and awards
• Personalized décor (monograms, kids’ drawings, etc.)

Store these items safely for your next home. A neutral, staged environment helps buyers focus on the property itself rather than its current owners.

3. Declutter Every Room

Go through each room and remove unnecessary items. Ask yourself: Do I use this? Do I need this? Does this add value to the space? If not, consider donating, selling, or storing it. The Minimalists offer practical advice on letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose.

Key Areas to Declutter:

• Kitchen: Clear countertops, remove excess small appliances, organize pantry & cabinets.
• Living Room: Limit decorative items, remove excess furniture, keep surfaces clear.
• Bedrooms: Simplify bedding, clear nightstands, organize closets.
• Bathrooms: Store personal products, use fresh towels, clean out medicine cabinets.
• Garage & Storage Areas: Tidy up, donate unused tools, and create open, organized spaces.

4. Neutralize Your Décor

Bright, bold colors and highly personalized design choices can distract buyers. Consider repainting walls in neutral tones like beige, gray, or soft white to create a blank canvas. If you need inspiration, Sherwin-Williams has great neutral color palettes that work well for staging.

5. Organize Closets & Storage Spaces

Buyers will look inside closets and storage areas, so make sure they appear spacious and tidy. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 30% of closet space empty to create the illusion of more storage. Use storage bins, dividers, and labels to keep things neat. For expert organizing tips, visit The Home Edit.

6. Deep Clean Everything

A spotless home suggests it has been well-maintained. Pay attention to:

• Floors and carpets
• Windows and mirrors
• Baseboards and walls
• Appliances (inside and out)
• Bathrooms and kitchens

If deep cleaning seems overwhelming, hiring a professional cleaning service can be a worthwhile investment.

7. Consider Renting a Storage Unit

If you have excess furniture, seasonal items, or large personal belongings, consider renting a storage unit to temporarily store them. This will create a more open and inviting space in your home, helping buyers see its full potential.

8. Create a Welcoming First Impression

• Declutter entryways and front porches.
• Add fresh flowers or a simple wreath to the front door.
• Use soft lighting and light-scented candles to enhance the ambiance.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering and depersonalizing are essential steps in making your home market-ready. A clean, neutral, and well-organized space allows buyers to see themselves living in the home, increasing its appeal and value.

Thinking about selling your home? Contact me today for personalized advice on getting your home market-ready!

As winter starts to fade and spring approaches, many homeowners begin to think about making a move. If you’re considering selling your home this year, March is the perfect time to start preparing. Here’s why getting your house ready now can set you up for a successful sale.

1. The Spring Market is Just Around the Corner

Spring is one of the busiest times of the year for real estate. Buyers are eager to find their next home, and competition starts heating up. By preparing your home in March, you’ll be ahead of the game when the market picks up in April and May. A well-prepared home stands out, meaning you’re more likely to attract serious buyers and receive strong offers.

2. Curb Appeal Starts to Improve

After a long winter, the first signs of spring make a big difference in how your home looks. March is a great time to:
✅ Clean up your yard
✅ Trim bushes and trees
✅ Freshen up your front door and exterior with a new coat of paint
✅ Plant early spring flowers for a welcoming first impression

Since curb appeal is one of the first things buyers notice, getting a head start on outdoor maintenance can make your home more inviting as showings pick up.

📌 Helpful Resource: HGTV – Curb Appeal Boosters

3. Mild Weather Makes Home Projects Easier

March gives you a great window of time to tackle home improvement projects without the extreme cold of winter or the heat of summer. Whether it’s painting walls, replacing outdated fixtures, or deep cleaning, the moderate temperatures make home prep much more manageable.

📌 Helpful Resource: Better Homes & Gardens – Simple DIY Home Improvements

4. Buyers Are Already Looking

While many people assume buyers wait until late spring or summer, plenty of them start their search early. Families, in particular, want to move before the next school year begins, which means they’re shopping now so they can close on a home by summer. Getting your home market-ready in March ensures it’s available when buyers are actively looking.

5. Less Competition Means More Attention

Many sellers wait until late spring to list their homes, leading to a flood of new listings. By getting your home ready in March, you position yourself ahead of the rush, giving your property a better chance to stand out. Less competition can mean more showings and potentially stronger offers.

6. Home Inspection and Repairs Take Time

If you need to make repairs before selling, it’s best to start sooner rather than later. Scheduling contractors for small updates, repairs, or even a pre-listing inspection in March gives you plenty of time to handle any issues before listing. Plus, you won’t be scrambling to fix things when buyers are ready to make offers.

📌 Helpful Resource: American Society of Home Inspectors – What to Expect from a Home Inspection

7. Daylight Savings Brings More Showings

With daylight savings time kicking in this weekend, longer evenings mean more opportunities for buyers to see your home after work. A well-lit home during an evening showing can make a big impact, giving buyers a warm and welcoming experience.

8. Professional Photos Shine in Natural Light

One of the best ways to market your home is with high-quality listing photos. March brings more natural light, making your home look its best in professional photos. Great listing photos can make a huge difference in attracting buyers online, where most home searches begin.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about selling your home in 2025, don’t wait until the last minute. Preparing your home in March allows you to take advantage of the busy spring market while minimizing stress. By tackling home improvements, boosting curb appeal, and getting ahead of the competition, you can set yourself up for a successful sale.

Thinking about selling? Let’s talk! I’d love to help you navigate the process and get your home ready to hit the market. Contact me today to start planning your next move!