Whether you’re selling your home or simply looking for the right time to move on, making the process smooth and stress-free is an important priority. Taking the time to get your house in tip-top shape can help you make a fast sale at the best possible price.

While it may be tempting to rush into repairs and updates as you’re getting ready to sell, this is a surefire way to overspend and ultimately hurt your chances of a quick sale. Instead, focus on repairs and improvements that will have a high return on investment.

Here’s a list of some key areas to prioritize in your preparations:

Cleanliness

A fresh coat of paint, a tidy yard, and a clean kitchen are all must-haves for homeowners getting ready to put their homes on the market. While these fixes won’t break the bank, they can make a big difference in how buyers view your property.

If you’re unsure what your property needs to stand out, work with your real estate agent to determine the most important areas of your home for improvement. This will give you a better idea of how much effort and money you’ll need to put into your property to maximize the sales price.

Depersonalize

Home shoppers want to be able to envision themselves living in your space, and that means they need a blank canvas to work with. To achieve this, remove personal items such as family photos and kids’ artwork. You’ll also want to remove knick-knacks and other clutter from shelves, tables, and counters. Consider putting away some of your clothes and linens as well. Lastly, deodorize your home and remove any odor-producing items like pet odors and smoke odors.

Do a deep clean of your property before you begin the home selling process, and continue this cleaning routine throughout the duration of your selling period. Make sure to wipe down toilets, sweep and mop floors, and vacuum carpeting as needed.

It’s also a good idea to invest in a professional cleaning before you list your property, which can give it a truly sparkling finish. Don’t forget to tackle the exterior as well, including repainting your front door and sprucing up your landscaping.

Consider a pre-sale home inspection to identify and address any major issues that could delay or prevent your home from selling. This isn’t a necessity, but it’s a smart move that will give you an advantage over other sellers who wait until they’re under contract with a buyer to tackle necessary repairs.

Getting your home ready to sell isn’t an easy task, but it’s an essential part of the home selling process. By working through this checklist and avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be on your way to a speedy sale and an easier transition into your next home. Good luck!