🏡 Prepping Your Home for Showings? Here’s What Really Matters (and What Doesn’t)

When it’s time to show your home to potential buyers, first impressions are everything.

But here’s the truth: not everything you do to prep your home will have the same impact. Some updates will boost buyer interest (and even increase your sale price), while others are simply a waste of time and money.

Let’s break down what actually matters—and what doesn’t—when getting your home showing-ready 👇

✅ What REALLY Matters When Prepping for Showings

🌿 Curb Appeal: The 10-Second First Impression

Before buyers even step inside, they’re already forming an opinion. A welcoming exterior sets the tone for a great showing.

• Freshly cut lawn and trimmed hedges

• Clean and inviting entryway (sweep the porch, add a welcome mat)

• Fresh coat of paint on the front door

• Tidy driveway—no garbage bins in sight

• Well-lit exterior for evening showings

💡 Pro Tip: Buyers often do drive-bys before booking a showing—make sure your home looks inviting from the street!

🚪 Declutter & Depersonalize: Let Buyers Imagine Themselves There

You want buyers to picture their life in your home—not yours.

• Remove excess furniture to open up space

• Clear countertops in kitchens & bathrooms

• Pack away personal photos, kids’ artwork, and bold decor

• Organize closets—yes, buyers will open them!

• Tidy storage areas like basements and garages

💡 Pro Tip: Rent a storage unit if needed—a tidy home sells faster and for more money.

🧼 Deep Clean: A Spotless Home is a Sellable Home

Clean = cared for. That’s the message you’re sending.

• Dust surfaces, baseboards, and light fixtures

• Clean windows for max natural light

• Eliminate pet odors—deep clean carpets & furniture

• Scrub kitchens and bathrooms until they shine

• Neatly made beds & fresh towels in bathrooms

💡 Pro Tip: Hiring professional cleaners before showings? Worth. Every. Penny.

💡 Lighting: Make It Bright, Warm & Inviting

Dark homes feel smaller. Bright homes feel bigger and more welcoming.

• Open all blinds and curtains

• Replace any dim or burnt-out bulbs

• Use warm-toned bulbs throughout

• Turn on lamps for ambiance

• Clean mirrors to reflect light

💡 Pro Tip: Evening showing? Use candles or accent lighting for a cozy vibe.

🌸 A Fresh & Neutral Scent: Appeal to the Senses

The nose knows. Keep it light and fresh.

• Skip the overpowering air fresheners

• Simmer cinnamon or bake cookies pre-showing

• Choose subtle scents like vanilla or lavender

• Open windows to air out the space

💡 Pro Tip: Pet owner? Deep clean bedding, litter boxes, and carpets!

🛋️ Staging: Make It Look Like a Model Home

Not about being “fancy”—it’s about flow and feel.

• Arrange furniture to maximize space

• Add cozy touches: pillows, throws, table settings

• Style kitchen counters with fresh fruit or flowers

• Keep decor simple, neutral, and intentional

💡 Pro Tip: Staged homes sell 88% faster and for 5–10% more than unstaged homes!

🚫 What DOESN’T Matter (Don’t Waste Time or Money!)

Not all efforts have equal payoff. Skip these:

• ❌ Major renovations – Cosmetic upgrades go further for less.

• ❌ Over-the-top decor – Keep it neutral and approachable.

• ❌ Fancy appliances – If they work, don’t upgrade them.

• ❌ Fixing every tiny thing – Tackle what’s obvious and leave the rest.

• ❌ Leaving pets at home – Some buyers are allergic or fearful. Always remove them for showings.

💬 Final Thoughts: Focus on What Sells Homes Faster

Prepping your home for showings doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive.

Focus on:
✨ Cleanliness
✨ Lighting
✨ Decluttering
✨ First impressions

...and you’ll create a space buyers fall in love with.

📩 Thinking about selling? We’ll help you prep your home so it shines in today’s market. Let’s chat.

#YourMoveElevated 🚀