Preparing Your Home to Sell: Repair, Neutralize, and Stage for Success

By Natalie Boyle, REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)

Published July 13, 2025

Selling your home doesn’t just mean hiring a Realtor® to stick a sign out front. There are a lot of preparations you should make to ensure you get the best offer possible in the shortest time. Here are some considerations to make when preparing to sell your home.

Repair

Just because you’ve gotten used to the cracks in the walls and the rattles in the radiators doesn’t mean a buyer will too. If you have hardwood floors that need refinishing, be sure to get it done—hardwood is a huge selling point. Buyers like to snoop around, so be sure to fix any sticky doors or drawers as well. Finally, don’t forget to address any issues with the exterior—fences, shingles, sidewalks, etc. After all, without curb appeal, some buyers may never get to see the inside.

Neutralize

You want buyers to see themselves in your home. If your living room has lime green shag, wood-paneled walls, and all your collectibles and personal photographs, this will be much harder for them to do. Try replacing any bold color choices in your floors and walls with something more neutral—beiges, tans, and whites. Repainting and reflooring will make everything look fresh and new, and help prospective buyers imagine all the possibilities.

Stage

Once your house is clean and updated, it’s time to play dress up. Home stagers can add small details and décor touches that will bring out the possibilities in the various spaces in your home: lamps, mirrors, throw rugs and pillows, flowers, decorative soaps and towels, patio furniture. Home staging can be particularly useful if your home is especially old or if the exterior looks dated. Think of it as a little mascara and rouge—if it’s done right, you notice the beauty, not the makeup.

Pro Tip: Small investments in repairs and staging can yield a significant increase in your home’s sale price and reduce time on market.

Here are some more tips I have for buying and selling homes!

Dealing With Financing 5 Tips for Buying a Home Home Buying Packet

Thinking about making a move? Contact Natalie today!

Contact Natalie Boyle Call 949.929.5727

Natalie Boyle
REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)
Over 15 years helping South OC homeowners discover their perfect community.
Learn more about Natalie →

*Always seek the assistance of a real estate professional when you are preparing to sell your home.