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The Seller’s Ultimate Checklist: What to Do Before Listing Your Home in 2025

February 19, 20253 min read

Thinking of selling your home in 2025? Follow this ultimate home-selling checklist to maximize your home’s value, attract serious buyers, and sell quickly in today’s real estate market.

🏡 Step 1: Understand the 2025 Real Estate Market

Before listing your home, research home values in Central Ohio, recent sales in your neighborhood, and how long homes are staying on the market.

📈 Trending in 2025:
✅ Demand for updated homes with modern finishes
✅ Interest rates stabilizing—buyers are ready to make a move
✅ Low inventory in key areas, making this a great time to sell

💡 Pro Tip: Want an expert market analysis? Get a free home valuation here!

🛋 Step 2: Declutter, Depersonalize & Stage

Buyers need to visualize themselves in your home. A clutter-free, neutral space sells faster!

Remove excess furniture to make rooms look spacious
Store personal items like family photos, memorabilia, or bold décor
Stage key areas (living room, kitchen, master bedroom) with warm, neutral colors - Did you know in most cases, I provide FREE partial staging

💡 Pro Tip: Homes that are professionally staged sell for up to 10% more than unstaged homes!

🔧 Step 3: Make Strategic Home Improvements

Not all home upgrades are worth the money. Focus on high ROI renovations:

Fresh Paint (Neutral Colors) 🎨 – A quick, affordable way to modernize your home
Curb Appeal Boost 🌿 – Fresh mulch, trimmed hedges & a power-washed driveway
Minor Repairs 🔧 – Fix leaky faucets, replace outdated fixtures, repair flooring

💡 Pro Tip: A pre-listing home inspection can uncover hidden issues before buyers do!

🛁 Step 4: Deep Clean Like a Pro

A spotless home makes a huge difference to buyers.

Steam-clean carpets & floors
Wash windows (inside & out) for maximum light
Eliminate odors – No pet smells, strong food scents, or musty areas

💡 Pro Tip: A fresh citrus scent (from real lemons or essential oils) makes homes feel welcoming.

📑 Step 5: Gather Important Documents

Having your paperwork ready speeds up the closing process.

✅ Utility bills & maintenance records 🏠
✅ HOA details
✅ Warranty documents for appliances & roof repairs 📜

💡 Pro Tip: Buyers love transparency—having these documents ready builds trust!

📸 Step 6: Plan for Professional Marketing & Showings

A strong online presence is crucial in today’s market!

Plan for professional real estate photographer 📷 (Homes with pro photos get 61% more views!)
Create a video tour 🎥 – Virtual tours attract more buyers
Be flexible with showings – More availability = more potential offers

💡 Pro Tip: I use targeted social media ads to get maximum exposure for my listings!

💰 Step 7: Price It Right from Day One

Overpricing = fewer buyers. Underpricing = leaving money on the table.

✅ Use local market data (not just Zillow estimates)
✅ Consider a strategic pricing strategy to attract multiple offers
✅ Be prepared for negotiations & appraisal considerations

💡 Pro Tip: Homes priced correctly from the start sell faster and for more money!

🤝 Step 8: Work With a Top Real Estate Agent in Central Ohio

Selling your home in 2025? I make the process stress-free!

✔️ Expert marketing strategies to get you top dollar
✔️ Personalized selling plan for your unique home
✔️ Strong negotiation skills to protect your bottom line

📩 Get started today! Contact me for a free home-selling consultation.

📞 Call/Text: 740-809-2433
📩 Email: [email protected]

Download the Checklist:

CHECKLIST

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Sheila Howell

Hi, I’m Sheila Howell, a dedicated and experienced real estate professional based in Central Ohio. With my lifelong connection to the region and a deep understanding of rural areas, I am passionate about guiding buyers and sellers through their real estate transactions with care and expertise. Having reached the empty-nest stage of life, I bring a wealth of personal experiences and a strong commitment to building lasting relationships. My thorough knowledge of the local market provides insights to my clients, ensuring they make informed decisions and navigate the real estate process smoothly. Drawing from my contract negotiation and marketing expertise, I bring a unique perspective to the real estate industry. My goal is to make your real estate transaction seamless and enjoyable so that you consider me as a trusted advocate well after leaving the closing table. I would be honored to connect with you if you’re ready to embark on your real estate journey. Together, we can navigate the real estate landscape and find your dream home that perfectly reflects your lifestyle and aspirations.

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Westerville, OH 43081

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Copyright © Red One Realty 2025.

Terms & Conditions - Privacy Policy - Fair Housing