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How to Sell a House: Your Complete Checklist

How to Sell a House: Your Complete Checklist

 
Wondering how to sell a house but not quite sure where to get started? Our checklist will provide a complete guide for you to check off as you get started on this important step in your life.
 

How to Sell a House: Your Complete Checklist


✅ 1. Boost Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter—especially when buyers are swiping through listings or pulling up for a tour.

  • Mow the lawn, edge pathways, and trim bushes
  • Power wash the exterior and driveway
  • Paint or polish the front door
  • Add seasonal plants or flowers
  • Update your house numbers and outdoor lighting

✅ 2. Declutter and Depersonalize

Buyers need to see their future in your space—not your past.

  • Remove excess furniture to create space
  • Pack away family photos, diplomas, and kids’ artwork
  • Organize closets and cabinets (buyers will peek!)
  • Use neutral tones to make rooms feel brighter and bigger
  • Store or sell items to simplify the layout

✅ 3. Consider Professional Staging (or DIY Accents)

Staged homes in today’s market often sell faster and for more.

  • Rent or borrow furniture for key rooms if the space is empty
  • Add fresh, modern touches like throw pillows or greenery
  • Use mirrors to reflect light and add depth
  • Light candles or diffuse subtle scents before showings

✅ 4. Complete Repairs and Minor Renovations

Don’t give buyers a reason to hesitate.

  • Touch up paint, baseboards, and trim
  • Fix leaky faucets and running toilets
  • Replace outdated light fixtures or cabinet hardware
  • Repair any flooring issues
  • Schedule a pre-listing home inspection to catch red flags early

💡 Pro Tip: Homes with pre-inspections often feel more trustworthy to buyers and allow you to fix issues on your timeline.


✅ 5. Take Security Precautions During Showings

Safety first—always.

  • Lock up valuables, including jewelry, passports, and medications
  • Remove visible electronics or small collectibles
  • Consider installing a video doorbell or temporary smart lock system
  • Never leave spare keys out during open houses

✅ 6. Hire a Local, Full-Time Real Estate Agent

In today’s fast-moving Central PA market, the right agent can help you net significantly more.

  • Interview agents with experience in your area (like Hershey, Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, etc.)
  • Ask for a comparative market analysis (CMA) to price competitively
  • Look for strong marketing strategies: professional photos, virtual tours, social media reach
  • Confirm MLS access, staging support, and open house plans

📊 Fun Fact: Homes in Central PA listed with a licensed agent sold for an average of 18% more in Q1 2025 than FSBO listings.


✅ 7. Prepare for the Listing Launch

Now it’s time to go public—and make a splash.

  • Invest in high-quality listing photos and 3D walkthroughs
  • Create a compelling listing description highlighting key features
  • Confirm your home is listed on the MLS and major real estate sites
  • Share the listing on neighborhood groups and your social media
  • Consider offering a buyer incentive (e.g., seller credit, home warranty)

✅ 8. Be Ready for Showings and Open Houses

Flexibility wins in a competitive market.

  • Keep the home clean and smelling fresh at all times
  • Create a checklist for a quick tidy-up before each showing
  • Be ready to leave the house during tours
  • Provide printed feature sheets for in-person visitors

✅ 9. Review Offers and Negotiate Strategically

Don’t just accept the highest offer—review terms, too.

  • Evaluate contingencies, timelines, and financing types
  • Work with your agent to craft counteroffers if needed
  • Consider escalation clauses or appraisal gap coverage
  • Choose an offer that aligns with your financial and timing goals

✅ 10. Prepare for Closing

You're almost there!

  • Complete any agreed-upon repairs
  • Gather necessary documentation (warranties, manuals, receipts)
  • Coordinate your move-out date
  • Review and sign closing documents with your agent and title company

✅ BONUS: Plan What’s Next

Whether you're moving locally or relocating, don’t forget:

  • Schedule movers early (especially during peak seasons)
  • Forward your mail and update utilities
  • Notify your bank, employer, and insurance providers of your address change
  • Celebrate your next chapter! 🎉

Let Hershey Real Estate Group connect you with top-tier agents who understand today’s market—and how to help you thrive in it.
👉 Start your journey at Hershey Real Estate Group

 

 

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