How to Prepare a House for Sale: Step-by-Step Guide

A well-prepared home sells faster and for more money. Follow this simple guide to make your property shine before listing it on the MLS with Brokerless Flat Fee MLS.

1️⃣ Declutter and Deep Clean

Buyers need to see your home, not your stuff. Remove personal items, minimize décor, and clean every surface until it sparkles. Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways—these spaces make the strongest first impressions.

2️⃣ Make Quick Fixes

Small repairs can make a big difference. Tighten door handles, replace outdated light fixtures, touch up paint, and fix leaky faucets. These details show buyers that your home has been cared for and is move-in ready.

3️⃣ Improve Curb Appeal

Your exterior sets the tone for the entire showing. Mow the lawn, trim bushes, clean gutters, and consider a new welcome mat or potted plants. First impressions start at the curb—make yours count.

4️⃣ Stage to Highlight Space

Rearrange furniture to create open flow and natural light. Use neutral colors, fresh linens, and simple accents. If possible, add soft lighting and a pleasant scent before showings. A well-staged home can attract higher offers faster.

Staged or Empty? What Sells Better?

Not sure whether to fully stage or leave rooms empty? We’ve got you covered — read our full comparison in “Staged vs Empty Home: Which Sells Faster?” to see which approach works best for your property and budget.

5️⃣ Gather Paperwork and Photos

Before listing, organize important records—recent utility bills, warranties, and repair receipts. Capture high-quality photos that highlight your home’s best features. For MLS listings, photos are your first showing—make them count.

6️⃣ Set the Right Price

Even a perfect home can struggle to sell if priced incorrectly. Review comparable listings in your area and determine a realistic range. Learn more in our guide on how to price your home to sell.

7️⃣ List on the MLS

Once your home is photo-ready, list it on the MLS to reach serious buyers searching on Realtor.com, Zillow, and hundreds of agent sites. With Brokerless, you can do it yourself for one flat fee—no 6% commission.

List on the MLS with Brokerless

Preparing your house for sale takes effort, but it pays off. A clean, organized, and well-priced home creates buyer confidence and helps your FSBO listing stand out on the MLS from day one.