How to Prepare Your House for Sale, Yourself.

Selling your home without a realtor? It all starts with a solid first impression. The good news? A few thoughtful touches can go a long way. Here's how to get your home looking its best — without hiring an expensive staging team.

A clean and decluttered home makes it easy for buyers to imagine themselves in the space.

1. Tackle Minor Repairs
Fix that leaky faucet, replace burned-out light bulbs, tighten door handles, and patch any holes in the walls. Small things make a big difference to buyers.

2. Refresh with Neutral Paint
If your walls are bold or overly personalized, consider repainting in neutral tones like soft greys, warm whites, or light beige. These shades help buyers imagine the space as their own.

3. Declutter and Depersonalize
Remove excess furniture, clear countertops, and take down personal photos or quirky decor. Think minimalist — clean, open spaces feel larger and more inviting.

4. Hire a Professional Cleaner
A sparkling home feels well cared for. Consider hiring a cleaner to do a deep clean before showings. Clean floors, windows, and appliances are musts.

5. Get Ready to Show
On showing days, remove pets (and their toys!), take out the trash, open the curtains for natural light, and make sure the house smells fresh. Shower beforehand, wear neat clothes, and greet potential buyers with confidence.

6. Create a Killer Property Listing
A standout listing can make or break your sale. Invest in professional photos — they help your property shine online and grab attention. Want to go the extra mile? Consider a drone video tour to showcase your home’s exterior, layout, and neighbourhood. And if you’re stuck on writing the perfect listing description, don’t worry — ChatGPT can help you craft a compelling write-up that highlights your home's best features in a tone that fits your style.

Selling on your own means taking the reins — and with just a bit of effort, you’ll make your home stand out