Selling a home can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can make the process smoother and more efficient. Taking a few key steps before listing your house can increase its appeal to potential buyers and help you sell it faster. Here are six things to do before you put your Michigan home on the market.

1. Freshen Up with a Coat of Paint

Repainting your home is one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance its appeal. If your walls feature bold or dated colors, consider opting for a neutral, light shade that will make it easier for buyers to envision their own furniture and decor. Even if the color is neutral, addressing scuff marks or chips in the paint will help your home look well-maintained and move-in ready.

2. Boost Curb Appeal

The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers will see, both in person and in photos. A clean, inviting exterior can make all the difference. Simple upgrades like adding new plants, repainting your front door, fixing any visible cracks in the driveway, and trimming overgrown bushes can make your home stand out. Don’t forget to mow the lawn and tidy up any outdoor spaces to create a welcoming first impression.

3. Remove Personal Items

To help potential buyers visualize themselves living in your space, it’s important to remove personal items like family photos, clothing, toys, and any personalized decorations. This helps make the space feel neutral and more expansive. Additionally, clearing out closets, drawers, and cabinets can show buyers how much storage space is available and reduce clutter, making the home feel more spacious. Plus, packing up these items early will make your move easier once your home sells.

4. Declutter the Entire House

Clutter can make even the largest homes feel cramped and disorganized. Take the time to go through your home and eliminate items you no longer need. Organize your closets, remove excess items from shelves, and clean out areas like the oven and corners that may have been neglected. A well-organized, tidy home will not only look more appealing to buyers but will also highlight the best features of your property.

5. Take Care of Minor Repairs

Before listing your home, take care of any lingering repair tasks you’ve been putting off. This could include fixing leaky faucets, patching holes in the walls, replacing worn-out lightbulbs, servicing the HVAC system, or ensuring that doors and windows open and close properly. If your appliances or fixtures are outdated, make sure they’re functioning correctly. Addressing these small issues will prevent buyers from using them as negotiation points when making an offer.

6. Hire a Real Estate Agent

While it might be tempting to handle the sale yourself to save on commission fees, enlisting a real estate agent can actually help you sell your home faster and for a better price. An experienced agent will have valuable insights on how to present your home in the best light, market it effectively, and negotiate on your behalf. Research local agents to find one who understands the market and aligns with your goals.

By taking these steps before listing your home, you’ll be well on your way to making a great impression on buyers and securing a successful sale. With the right preparation, you can increase your chances of selling quickly and at a favorable price.