As you get ready to put your home on the market, take a look around and evaluate your home.  See anthing that needs repaired?  Is your home readly for a facelift?  Where do you start and what do you fix first?  

We have provided a list of ideas from cheapest to most expensive to spark your creativity and motivation to get your home ready to sell for top dollar. 

1. Cleanliness: Deep clean the entire home, paying attention to details like carpets, grout, baseboards, and hidden corners.  Eliminate any unpleasant odors, and consider using pleasant scents to create a welcoming atmosphere. Deep cleaning the home is a low-cost fix that can have a significant impact on its presentation.

2. Declutter and Depersonalize: Removing personal items and clutter is free and can improve the overall look and feel of the home and help buyers envision the home as their own.

3. Curb Appeal: First impressions matter; enhance the exterior with fresh paint, landscaping, and a well-maintained front yard. Enhancing the exterior with landscaping and minor maintenance is relatively affordable.

4. Lighting: Install modern, energy-efficient lighting fixtures to brighten up the space and create a more inviting atmosphere. Installing new lighting fixtures is a moderate expense and can improve the home's ambiance.

5. Minor Repairs: Fix any noticeable issues like leaky faucets, loose cabinet handles, or squeaky doors. A well-maintained home is more appealing. Fixing issues like leaky faucets and loose handles typically involves minimal costs.

6. Security Systems: Consider adding or updating security features like cameras, alarms, and smart locks for added peace of mind.  Adding or updating security features may require some investment but can be a selling point.

7. Landscaping: Ensure the backyard and outdoor spaces are well-maintained, with trimmed bushes, a manicured lawn, and a functional outdoor living area.  Maintaining the yard and outdoor spaces, while it may cost, is not a major expense.

8. Windows and Doors: Upgrade old or drafty windows and doors to improve energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.  Upgrading windows and doors can be a moderate cost depending on the extent of the renovation.

9. Paint: A fresh coat of neutral paint can instantly update a space and make it look cleaner and more modern. Repainting with a fresh coat of neutral paint is a relatively inexpensive way to update the interior.

10. Staging: Consider professional staging to make the home feel more inviting and showcase its potential. Professional staging may require an investment but can enhance the presentation of the home.

11. Flooring: Repair or replace damaged or outdated flooring, as it can significantly impact a buyer's perception of the home. Repairing or replacing flooring can vary in cost depending on the material chosen.

12. Kitchen Updates: Focus on the kitchen as it's a key selling point. Consider updating countertops, cabinet hardware, and appliances. Upgrading the kitchen with new fixtures and appliances can range from moderate to high in cost.

13. Bathroom Refresh: Upgrade the bathroom with new fixtures, regrouting tiles, and ensuring it's clean and mold-free. Renovating the bathroom can be moderately expensive, depending on the changes made.

14. Energy Efficiency: Upgrade insulation and invest in energy-efficient appliances to reduce utility costs, which can be a selling point.  Adding energy-efficient features and appliances may have a moderate upfront cost but can save money in the long run.

15. HVAC Servicing: Ensure the heating and cooling systems are in good working order. A well-maintained HVAC system is a selling point. This may involve some costs but is crucial for buyer confidence.

16. Roof and Gutters: Repair or replace a damaged roof and ensure gutters are clean and functioning properly to avoid water damage issues.  Repairing or replacing the roof and gutters can be a significant expense but is essential for home value and will come up on a home inspection regardless so be proactive.

17. Basement and Attic: Make these spaces more functional and organized, showcasing their potential for storage or additional living areas.  Making these spaces more functional can vary in cost depending on the improvements made.

18. Structural Issues: Fixing major structural problems can be a substantial expense, but it's necessary for the home's integrity.

19. Bathroom and Kitchen Renovations: Extensive renovations of these areas, including major changes, can be among the most expensive fixes.

Remember that the cost of these fixes can vary widely based on the scope of work, local labor and material prices, and individual circumstances. It's important to work with your clients to determine the most cost-effective strategies to prepare their home for sale while maximizing its value.

Home Inspection: A pre-listing inspection can uncover potential issues and may involve some repair costs.