Seller Checklist

Pre-listing prep checklist.

Use this before your home goes live. The goal is not to spend money everywhere. It is to focus on the items that help the home show clearly, photograph well, and avoid obvious buyer distractions.

Name: ____________________________________ Date: __________________________ Property / File / Notes: ________________________________________________________________

First impression

Clean, bright, and simple usually beats overdone.

The front entry, porch, driveway, yard, and exterior approach are clean and tidy. Grass, weeds, gardens, leaves, snow, or seasonal clutter have been handled. Windows, mirrors, counters, floors, and high-touch areas are cleaned. Burned-out bulbs are replaced and rooms are bright for photos and showings. Obvious odours, pet items, garbage, and laundry have been addressed.

Interior prep

Remove distractions so buyers can focus on the home.

Main rooms are decluttered and excess furniture has been removed where helpful. Personal items, valuables, medications, financial documents, and sensitive items are secured. Paint touch-ups, loose handles, squeaky doors, and small obvious repairs are handled where practical. Kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, basement, garage, and closets are organized enough for showings. Staging or furniture placement has been reviewed for photos and traffic flow.

Property details and documents

Buyers often ask for details once interest increases.

I have gathered approximate ages of roof, furnace, AC, windows, appliances, and major updates where available. I have utility bills, rental equipment details, warranties, permits, or invoices available if relevant. I know what fixtures, appliances, window coverings, and items I want included or excluded. I have thought about any known issues that may need to be disclosed or discussed with the right professional. I have reviewed mortgage payout, penalty, bridge financing, or timing questions if they may affect my next move.

Launch readiness

Selling is smoother when the logistics are handled early.

Pricing strategy has been reviewed using recent comparable sales and current competition. Photo, video, measurement, or marketing appointments are scheduled or ready to schedule. Showing instructions, lockbox access, pets, kids, work schedules, and notice requirements are planned. The preferred offer review strategy and acceptable closing range have been discussed. I know what needs to happen before the listing goes live.

Need help deciding what matters most?

Use the checklist as a starting point, then confirm the details with the right professionals before relying on anything in a purchase, sale, or closing decision.

Ask Kory a Question

This checklist is for general educational planning only. It is not legal, mortgage, inspection, tax, insurance, or financial advice.