Guides · Selling
Getting your home ready to sell
Low-cost fixes, cleaning and staging that make a difference in photos and showings, and what to skip.
Do first
Declutter and deep-clean, fix small things that are obviously broken, freshen up paint where it's tired, and make the entrance welcoming. Good light and good photos matter because the first showing happens online.
Think twice
Big renovations right before selling rarely pay back their full cost. Ask an agent which updates buyers in your area actually pay more for.
Consider a pre-listing inspection
Finding problems early lets you fix them or price them in, instead of being surprised after you've accepted an offer.
Common questions
- Is professional staging worth it?
- It depends on the home and price range. Many agents can advise on simple staging using your own furniture.
Agents on GoDesi
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Read next
Selling with an agent vs. selling it yourself (FSBO)What you actually do yourself when you skip the agent, what it can save, and where sellers most often lose money.Who pays the real estate agent now?Since August 2024, buyers sign an agreement with their agent and commissions are agreed in writing. Here is what that means for you.15 questions to ask before you hire an agentA short interview list for buyers and sellers, so you can compare agents on facts rather than first impressions.How to price your home to sellWhy recent nearby sales matter more than online estimates, and what over-pricing really costs.
General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules differ by state; check with a licensed professional.