Home Selling Prep Checklist for Boise Sellers

Buyers decide how they feel about a home in the first few seconds of a listing photo or a showing. The good news: the updates that make the biggest difference are usually simple. Here’s the checklist I walk through with sellers.

Curb appeal

Power-wash the driveway, walkways and siding.
Fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs and a mowed, edged lawn.
Paint or refresh the front door and update the house numbers and porch light.
Add a new doormat and a couple of potted plants.

Entry and living areas

Declutter surfaces and remove about a third of the furniture to make rooms feel larger.
Patch nail holes and touch up paint; consider warm, neutral colors.
Replace burned-out bulbs and use matching color temperatures throughout.
Clean windows inside and out to maximize natural light.

Kitchen

Clear the countertops except for one or two styled items.
Deep clean appliances, grout and the range hood.
Consider updated cabinet hardware or a new faucet: small cost, big impact.

Bathrooms

Re-caulk tubs and showers and clean or replace grout as needed.
Add fresh white towels, a new shower curtain and a clean bath mat.
Fix any running toilets or dripping faucets.

Bedrooms

Neutral bedding, cleared nightstands and tidy closets (buyers open them!).
Remove personal photos so buyers can picture themselves in the space.

Systems and repairs

Service the furnace and air conditioning and replace filters.
Address known issues before buyers find them in the inspection.
Consider a pre-listing inspection for older homes to avoid surprises.

Before photos and showings

Open blinds, turn on every light and put away pet items.
Hide cords, remotes and toiletries.
Plan where you and your pets will go during showings.

Not sure which updates are worth it? I grew up on construction sites and have renovated homes myself, so I’m happy to walk through your home and give you an honest list of what will pay off and what won’t. Request a home value consultation to get started.

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