Preparing Your Home for Sale
"10 Things to Remove Before Showings"

Preparing your home for sale involves more than cleaning and taking professional photos. Creating a clean, organized, and welcoming space helps buyers focus on your home's best features and imagine themselves living there.

Before your next showing, consider removing these 10 things to make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

1. Personal Photographs

Put away family portraits, vacation photos, and personal displays to help buyers envision the home as their own.

2. Excess Furniture

Remove unnecessary or oversized furniture to make rooms feel more spacious and improve the flow of each area.

3. Countertop Clutter

Clear kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, and tables of paperwork, small appliances, and everyday items.

4. Excess Decorations

Pack away excessive knickknacks, collectibles, and seasonal decorations to create a cleaner, more neutral appearance.

5. Personal Toiletries

Store toothbrushes, makeup, razors, and other personal care products to keep bathrooms looking neat and inviting.

6. Pet Supplies

Put away pet beds, toys, and food bowls when practical. Clean pet areas and address odors before showings.

7. Shoes and Coats

Organize entryways by removing extra shoes, bags, coats, and other everyday belongings to create a welcoming first impression.

8. Excess Items in Closets

Remove unused clothing, old boxes, and unnecessary belongings so buyers can better see the available storage space.

9. Valuables and Sensitive Documents

Secure jewelry, cash, medications, financial paperwork, and personal information to protect your privacy and belongings.

10. Sources of Unpleasant Odors

Remove garbage, dirty laundry, and food scraps. Clean and ventilate your home rather than relying on strong air fresheners.

Final Tip: Prepare Before Every Showing

Before buyers arrive, take a few minutes to tidy surfaces, make beds, open curtains, turn on appropriate lights, and ensure walkways are clear.

Thinking about selling your home? A well-prepared property can make a stronger first impression. Contact Scott Wachtel, Associate Broker with Gateway Realty Group, at 304-350-2723 for guidance on preparing your home for the market—no pressure or obligation.