How to Get Your Home Ready to Sell (and Sell for Top Dollar in South Jersey & Philadelphia)

Thinking about selling your home? Preparation is the secret to selling fast and maximizing your return. A well-prepared house not only attracts more potential homebuyers but often sells quicker — and for more money.

Here’s your 8-week guide to get your home ready for the market and make a powerful first impression.

8 Weeks Before Listing: Plan and Prepare

Before putting your home on the market, start with a solid plan.

• Research your local real estate market. Review recent home sales in South Jersey or Philadelphia neighborhoods similar to yours.

• Interview top local agents. A knowledgeable listing agent can help you price strategically and market your home effectively. Click HERE to find local REALTORS.

• Do a full home walkthrough. Identify repairs, updates, and areas for improvement.

• Create your budget. Plan for updates that will add measurable value to your home.

💡 Pro Tip: Even simple updates like new paint, modern light fixtures, or fresh landscaping can make your home stand out to buyers.

6 Weeks Before Listing: Declutter and Depersonalize

Buyers want to imagine themselves living in your home — not you.

• Remove personal items like family photos and keepsakes.

• Declutter each room to highlight space and flow.

• Pack early. Store seasonal décor and unused items.

• Rent a storage unit if needed to keep the home open and airy.

💡 Pro Tip: The more neutral and spacious your home feels, the more appealing it will be during showings and photos.

4 Weeks Before Listing: Deep Clean and Repair

It’s time to make your home sparkle.

• Schedule professional cleaning. Include carpets, windows, and baseboards.

• Complete minor repairs. Fix leaky faucets, chipped tiles, and squeaky doors.

• Freshen up your paint. Use neutral, light tones to create a bright, move-in-ready feel.

💡 Pro Tip: A spotless, well-maintained home sends buyers the message that it’s been loved and cared for — increasing perceived value.

2 Weeks Before Listing: Stage and Boost Curb Appeal

Your home’s exterior and presentation are key first impressions.

• Stage your home. Arrange furniture to enhance flow and highlight your home’s best features.

• Add inviting touches. Fresh bedding, towels, and greenery create warmth and appeal.

• Spruce up the exterior. Mow the lawn, trim shrubs, plant flowers, and power wash your entryway.

💡 Pro Tip: Great curb appeal can increase your home’s value by up to 10%.

1 Week Before Listing: Add Final Touches

You’re almost ready to launch!

• Hire a professional photographer. Quality photos are crucial for online exposure.

• Ensure perfect lighting. Replace dim bulbs and use warm lighting throughout.

• Do a last-minute deep clean. Kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways should shine.

💡 Pro Tip: Have your real estate agent do a final walk-through to catch any last details before showings begin.

Listing Week: Launch and Stay Ready

• Your home goes live online. It’s now visible to active homebuyers across platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and the MLS.

• Stay showing-ready. Keep your home clean, well-lit, and smelling fresh.

• Be flexible. The easier it is for buyers to schedule a showing, the faster you’ll sell.

The Bottom Line to Prepare Your Home to Sell

By following this simple 8-week home-selling checklist, you’ll create a lasting first impression, attract serious buyers, and position your home to sell faster — and for top dollar.

If you’re preparing to sell your home in South Jersey, the Jersey Shore, or the Greater Philadelphia area, The Zack Grimmer Group, Powered by Real, can help guide you through every step — from pricing and staging to closing day.

📞 Schedule your free home valuation today

Get a professional market analysis and a custom home prep plan designed to maximize your sale price.

👉 Request Your Free Home Valuation