Whether you're planning to sell your home in the near future or further down the line, these tips will assist you in achieving a successful outcome.

1. Talk with a Realtor: Many people shy away from chatting with a realtor because they don’t want to show them their home before it’s spotless! But a good real estate agent (good being the key word here!) will develop a tailored strategy and coordinate the preparation from start to finish regardless of how it looks today. After creating a plan, they will begin booking vendors from their preferred list, as many are often booked out months in advance. Consider removing any oversized furniture from your home and, if necessary, packing and storing out-of-season clothing to create a more spacious and organized living area.

2. De-personalize: Taking down personal photos and decor can be sad, but if you will be living in your home while selling it, you don’t want prospective buyers to feel they are intruding when they tour your home. You want them to envision making their own memories and not staring at all yours. Personal photos are meaningful to you but distracting to a potential buyer.

4. Deep Clean: Something that really turns a buyer off is walking into a home with a stench or seeing dirt built up on the baseboards or countertops. A clean home is one less barrier for a buyer to overcome as they consider making an offer.

5. Update Light Fixtures: Updating your home with new fixtures is a simple and cost-effective way to refresh its look. You can find a wide selection of affordable fixtures on websites like Amazon or Wayfair. However, it's important to ensure that the fixtures you choose align with current selling trends. Before making any updates, it's a good idea to check with your realtor or conduct online research to ensure that the fixtures you choose will present your home in the best possible light.

6. Professional Photos: It's important to select a realtor who prioritizes professional photography and has a preferred photographer for your home's listing. The vast majority of potential buyers will view your home online before deciding whether or not to visit in person, so high-quality photographs are essential in making a strong first impression. If the photos are of poor quality, many buyers will simply skip over your listing and move on to the next. While camera phones can take decent photos, they don't compare to the keen eye and expertise of a professional photographer and camera.

7. Staging: Home staging can indeed give your home a magazine-style look, which can make it more attractive to potential buyers and increase your chances of a successful sale. If your home is already in good condition and your furniture is fashionable, you may only need to hire a professional to rearrange the layout and declutter. However, if your home is empty or your furniture is outdated, a professional stager may recommend renting furniture to create a more modern look, which statistically sells homes for more money. It's important to ensure that you hire a quality stager, as poorly executed staging can backfire and turn off potential buyers. Your realtor can assist you in finding a reputable stager and coordinating the process.

Dealing with buyers can be challenging, particularly in highly competitive markets or during certain seasons of the year. That's why it's important to have a team of professionals on your side who can help you navigate these issues and make smart decisions as a seller. Working with a team that includes a knowledgeable realtor, a skilled home stager, a professional photographer, and other experts can make all the difference in ensuring that your home sells quickly and for the best possible price. By having a team of professionals on your side, you can feel confident that you have the support you need to make your home selling experience a success.