Spring is almost here, and so is the bustling real estate market! If you're thinking of selling your home, you're probably wondering how to get it ready for showings—and how to get the best possible offer. The truth is, prepping your home for sale can significantly increase its value, sometimes by thousands of dollars.

Whether you're planning to stay in your home during the sale process or move out beforehand, the goal is the same: create a clean, functional, and inviting space that helps buyers imagine themselves living there.

As a professional organizer, I’ve helped many clients stage and declutter their homes before a sale. With a little planning and a few strategic steps, you can transform your home into a showstopper that stands out in today’s market.

Step 1: Decide If You'll Live in the Home During Showings

Before diving into packing or painting, determine whether you’ll be living in the home while it’s on the market. This decision will guide how you prepare the space.

If you're staying in the home, aim for a balance between everyday function and visual appeal. Create routines that make it easy to tidy up quickly before showings. For example, clearing countertops daily and keeping essential items tucked away helps your home look polished without much effort.

If you're moving out before the sale, you're one step ahead! You can stage the home with select furniture and décor without the hassle of daily upkeep. I recently staged a client’s home under similar conditions—they had already sorted what to keep and what to remove, which made the process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Start Decluttering and Packing Early

Decluttering is one of the most important parts of staging your home for sale. Go room by room and decide what to keep, donate, recycle, or toss. Start packing early so you're not overwhelmed later—imagine getting a great offer and needing to move fast!

If you’re unsure where to start, consider asking a professional organizer (about me!) or a trusted friend to help. Having support can make the decision-making process feel more manageable and less stressful.

Step 3: Remove Personal Items

Buyers need to visualize themselves in your home, not you. Take down personal photographs, awards, and highly personalized décor. This subtle shift allows potential buyers to emotionally connect with the space.

Step 4: Refresh Paint and Flooring

A fresh coat of neutral paint can instantly brighten your home and give it a modern, clean feel. Neutral tones help rooms look larger and more inviting.

Don’t forget the floors—clean rugs and carpets or consider replacing them if they’re worn out. In high-traffic areas, new hard flooring can make a big difference in the overall impression of your home.

Step 5: Pack Like You’re Moving in a Month

Packing in advance not only helps reduce stress but also frees up space, making your home look bigger and more open. Stack labeled boxes in a garage or storage area so they don’t distract from the living spaces during showings.

Think of it as hitting two birds with one stone: you're staging and getting a head start on your move!

Final Thoughts: Decluttering Adds Real Value

Even in a challenging market or with an older home, decluttering and staging can make a massive difference. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepped home stands out—and often gets better offers. A little effort now could lead to thousands of dollars more at closing.

So, roll up your sleeves, take it one step at a time, and remember: you’re not just selling a house—you’re showcasing a lifestyle.