Top Five Things to Do Before You Sell Your Home is contributed by Carmen Andrew, Weitzel Home Team. This article is published in the Spring/Summer 2025 Edition of Vibrant Senior Options Resource Guide Magazine.
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the real estate market over the past few years, you’ve likely noticed many changes, from loan interest rates to renovation costs. However, the essential steps for selling your home haven’t changed much.
Before You Sell Your Home:
Call Your Trusted Real Estate Professional
Whether you’re selling in a few weeks, months, or years, involving your Realtor early is crucial. They can walk through your home to advise on necessary upgrades or repairs, which is typically a free service. Many sellers mistakenly assume they need to make expensive improvements, but your Realtor can help you avoid unnecessary costs and guide you to reliable, cost-effective contractors. Before you sell your home, their connections can save you both time and money.
Make Your Plan
Decide where you’re moving—locally or out of state? Are you downsizing? Do you have a Realtor connection in your new area? Many Realtors, including us, have a network of trusted professionals in both the U.S. and Canada who specialize in senior real estate. If you need extra time in your home after selling, your agent can also help coordinate that. Share your timeline with your Realtor so they can help ensure a smooth transition.
Start Decluttering & Organizing
Tackle one room, closet, or drawer at a time. Begin with items you rarely use and decide whether to keep, donate, or pass them on to family. Don’t wait until the last minute to declutter—it’s much easier to do gradually. Your Realtor may also be able to refer you to a professional organizer if needed.
Finish Unfinished Projects
We all have projects that never got completed. Before selling, ensure any unfinished work is done so the home is qualified for bank financing for the next buyer. Ask your Realtor for recommendations for handymen or contractors who can help get things finished.
Check Your Attic and Crawl Spaces
In the Pacific Northwest, attics and crawl spaces are common trouble spots, often with critters, mold, mildew, or standing water. Address these issues before listing your home to avoid costly surprises during the inspection. Inspect these areas yourself or hire a professional to ensure everything is in good condition.
Before you see your home: If you don’t have a trusted real estate professional, ask for referrals from family and friends, or call usto help you connect with someone well-qualified in your area.
Carmen Andrew, Managing Broker
Office: 360-312-5151
Mobile: 360-393-0767
www.weitzelhometeam.com
