Tabatha Chase · Corona, CA Realtor

Pre-Listing Prep Checklist

Most of what costs sellers money at the negotiating table can be fixed in one weekend for a few hundred dollars. Work through this list before your photos and first showing.

Curb appeal

Buyers start judging before they reach the door, so start here.

Pressure-wash the driveway, walkway, porch and steps
Water, mow and edge the lawn; reseed or patch bare spots
Pull weeds and add fresh mulch to every planter bed
Replace dead or wilted potted plants with a few healthy flowering ones
Patch holes and cracks in the stucco near the entry
Check every exterior light works; replace dim or burned-out bulbs
Clean the front door, hardware and house numbers
Put down a new, clean doormat

Yard and outdoor spaces

Trimming is great; leaving the debris behind undoes it.

Haul away all branches and green waste the same day as any tree trim
Rake leaves and sweep the patio
Stage two matching chairs and a small table so buyers can picture using the space
Clear trash cans, hoses and clutter out of sight
Make sure gates open and close smoothly

Inside: finishes and small repairs

One new upgrade next to tired finishes makes the whole room look unfinished.

Touch up or repaint scuffed baseboards and door frames in semi-gloss white
Make trim, hardware and fixtures match the style of any new flooring or upgrades
Patch nail holes and wall dings; touch up paint
Fix sticky doors, loose handles and dripping faucets
Replace burned-out or mismatched bulbs so every room is evenly bright

Deep clean

Small mess makes buyers wonder what else was skipped. Look up, not just around.

Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures and vents; remove strings, tags and tape
Wash windows, tracks and sliding-door glass
Clean baseboards, outlet covers and light switches
Scrub grout, tubs and showers; replace worn caulk
Clear countertops and closets to about half full

Showing day

Comfortable buyers stay longer and remember the house for the right reasons.

Set the AC or heat to about 72°F an hour before buyers arrive
Open blinds and turn on every light
Take out the trash and put away pet bowls, beds and toys
Put away valuables, medications and personal paperwork
Do a final walk from the curb to the backyard, as a buyer would

Not sure where to start?

I'll walk your home with you and tell you which fixes are worth it before you list, and which to skip. It's free and there's no pressure.

Book My Free Pre-Listing Walkthrough

Tabatha Chase · Corona, CA Realtor · DRE #01968575 · fiv Realty · tabathachasehomes.com