Home Selling Preparation Checklist

First Steps

• [ ] Research recent sold prices in your area
• [ ] Interview 2–3 REALTORS® and compare listing agreements
• [ ] Choose a listing agent
• [ ] Determine your target listing price

Home Preparation

• [ ] Declutter every room (donate, store, or discard)
• [ ] Deep clean the entire home (or hire professionals)
• [ ] Apply fresh neutral paint where needed
• [ ] Repair leaky faucets and squeaky doors
• [ ] Replace burnt-out light bulbs (bright, neutral tone)
• [ ] Improve curb appeal (mow lawn, paint front door, clean walkway)
• [ ] Stage key rooms (living room, primary bedroom, kitchen)
• [ ] Remove personal photos and excess furniture
• [ ] Touch up scuffed baseboards and trim

Documentation

• [ ] Gather recent utility bills (avg. monthly costs)
• [ ] Compile renovation and repair records
• [ ] Locate property survey (if available)
• [ ] Obtain status certificate (if selling a condo)
• [ ] Review property tax assessment
• [ ] Check for any outstanding permits or work orders

Pre-Listing

• [ ] Schedule professional photography
• [ ] Prepare property description and highlight features
• [ ] Plan showing schedule and access
• [ ] Arrange temporary pet accommodation for showings
• [ ] Prepare a pre-listing home inspection (optional, builds buyer confidence)

Offer Stage

• [ ] Review all offers with your agent
• [ ] Verify buyer's financing pre-approval
• [ ] Consider conditions (financing, inspection, status certificate)
• [ ] Negotiate price, closing date, and included items
• [ ] Accept or counter the best offer

Closing

• [ ] Hire a real estate lawyer
• [ ] Fulfill any agreed-upon repairs
• [ ] Cancel or transfer utilities effective closing date
• [ ] Forward mail via Canada Post
• [ ] Leave the home clean and broom-swept for the buyer
• [ ] Hand over all keys, remotes, and codes