Real Estate News

Selling a home is an exciting milestone—but let’s be honest, it can feel like a whirlwind of tasks and timelines. Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or upgrading, preparing your property for the market is essential to capturing buyer interest and maximizing your sale price. The good news? With a focused plan, you can have your home ready to list in just 30 days. Here’s a week-by-week breakdown of how to get your LaFayette-area home market-ready fast—with confidence and clarity. Week 1: Declutter, Depersonalize, and Deep Clean Declutter Every Room Buyers want to envision their life in your home. That means creating a clean, neutral canvas. Start by: Donating, selling, or tossing anything you haven’t used in the past year. Packing away seasonal decor and infrequently used items. Organizing closets, cabinets, and storage spaces—yes, they’ll peek! A tidy home feels larger and more inviting, both in person and in listing photos. Depersonalize the Space While your personal style is beautiful, now is the time to remove: Family photos Bold artwork Personalized name signs Niche collections Instead, aim for neutral decor and warm, inviting touches that help buyers picture themselves calling your home their own. Deep Clean from Top to Bottom Cleanliness sells. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to cover: Windows (inside and out) Floors (vacuum, mop, polish) Kitchen appliances and backsplashes Bathroom grout, mirrors, tubs, and toilets Ceiling fans, vents, and baseboards Pro Tip: Streak-free glass and spotless surfaces translate beautifully in listing photography. Week 2: Make Repairs and Refresh the Interior Tackle Minor Repairs Buyers notice what you overlook. During week two, fix: Leaky faucets Squeaky doors Scuffed walls Loose hardware Worn weather stripping Dead lightbulbs or flickering fixtures Not only does this boost perceived value, but it signals a well-cared-for home. Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint New paint offers the highest ROI in home improvements. Choose light, neutral tones like: Warm white Soft beige Light gray These colors help rooms feel larger, brighter, and more universally appealing. Update Finishes and Fixtures Simple updates go a long way: Replace dated cabinet knobs with brushed nickel or matte black. Swap out tired light fixtures for modern options. Consider updating faucets and doorknobs for a cohesive look. These subtle enhancements elevate the overall aesthetic and make your home feel move-in ready. Find staging tips from Amy Kelley Real Estate → Week 3: Boost Curb Appeal and Stage for Buyers Spruce Up the Exterior Your curb appeal sets the tone before buyers ever step inside. Invest time into: Mowing and edging the lawn Trimming shrubs and trees Power washing the driveway and siding Painting or updating the front door Adding a new welcome mat or seasonal potted plants Need local landscapers or pressure washers? Ask Amy Kelley for trusted referrals! Stage for Success Staging makes your space memorable and marketable. You can do it yourself or hire a professional. Here’s how: Living Room: Create conversational furniture layouts Add a cozy throw or neutral pillows Keep surfaces minimal and polished Kitchen: Clear countertops completely Add a bowl of fruit or a small plant Shine up appliances and hardware Bedrooms: Use clean, neutral bedding Remove clutter from nightstands and under beds Bathrooms: Hang fresh towels Add a candle or soap dish Hide all personal toiletries Bonus Tip: Add gentle, warm lighting in every room to enhance ambiance. Week 4: Market Like a Pro and Prepar e to Show Hire a Professional Real Estate P hotographer Smartphone pics won't cut it in today’s digital marketplace. Work with a local agent who invests in professional photography, ensuring: High-resolution images Accurate lighting and angles Shots that highlight key features like fireplaces, natural light, or backyard space. These images often determine whether someone schedules a showing or scrolls past. Write a Compelling Listing Description Don’t just describe—sell the lifestyle: Mention upgrades and features like new HVAC, energy-efficient windows, or smart thermostats Highlight neighborhood perks such as proximity to parks, shopping, or top-rated schools in the LaFayette area Emphasize key selling points like fenced yards, open-concept layouts, or large lots. Avoid fluff—focus on what buyers want and how your home delivers. Get Ready for Showings and Open Houses Showings can come quickly, so keep your home ready with these daily habits: Open blinds to let in light Keep dishes out of the sink and beds neatly made Use subtle air fresheners or lightly scented candles Maintain temperature at a comfortable setting Leave a flyer with property details and upgrades for buyers to take Want a free showing prep checklist? Download Amy’s Printable Checklist Here → Final Thoughts: Flexibility & Feedback Make All the Difference Once your home is on the market, stay flexible and open to feedback. If showings aren’t translating into offers: Consider adjusting your price point Refresh your staging or photography Rethink the marketing description or online presence Your real estate agent is your partner in this. They’ll guide you through tweaks and negotiations, ensuring your home doesn’t just list—but sells. Ready to List Your Home? If you’re thinking about selling in LaFayette, Chickamauga, Fort Oglethorpe, or anywhere across Walker or Catoosa County , you don’t have to go it alone. Let Amy Kelley Real Estate walk you through every step, from pre-listing prep to successful closing. ~ Local experience. ~ Strategic marketing. ~ Professional support. ~ Make your home shine—on schedule and on budget. Contact Amy today and get your home market-ready →