Prepping Your Home for a Sale? Do These 7 Things First

Thinking about selling your home soon? You’re definitely not alone—especially in a competitive market like Indianapolis, where well-prepped homes tend to move faster and attract better offers. Whether you’re listing in Broad Ripple, Fountain Square, or out in the suburbs, buyers in this area have high expectations. If your home doesn’t look clean, updated, and cared for, it can sit on the market longer than you’d like.

The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to get your home ready. With just a few smart updates, you can make your property stand out and help buyers fall in love with it the moment they arrive. Here are seven simple things you should do before putting that “For Sale” sign in the yard.

1. Refresh Your Exterior

When buyers pull up to your home, the first thing they see is the exterior. That first glance often shapes how they feel about the whole property. If your siding is chipped, faded, or showing signs of wear, it might be time for a refresh.

You don’t always need a full siding replacement, but you do want everything to look clean and well-kept. A good power wash can make a difference, but sometimes it’s not enough—especially if your siding is older or damaged. In that case, working with an experienced Indianapolis siding company can help you choose a style that looks great and adds value. New siding can give your home a crisp, modern look and improve its curb appeal in just a few days.

Buyers often assume the way a home looks on the outside reflects how it’s maintained inside. If they see a clean, updated exterior, they’ll walk in with better expectations—and more confidence in your asking price.

2. Declutter Every Room

Clutter distracts buyers. It makes rooms feel smaller and messier, even if the space is large. One of the best things you can do is remove extra items from every room.

Start with surfaces. Clear off kitchen counters, bathroom sinks, and desktops. Pack up personal items like framed photos, souvenirs, or bold decorations. The goal is to create a clean and neutral space where buyers can picture their own belongings.

You don’t have to throw everything out. Just box up what you don’t need right now and store it out of sight. This step alone can make your home feel larger, more organized, and more appealing.

3. Touch Up Paint and Trim

Fresh paint is one of the cheapest ways to update your home. Even if your walls aren’t badly damaged, a new coat of paint can instantly make a room feel brighter and cleaner.

Stick to neutral shades like light gray, beige, or soft white. These colors work with most décor styles and appeal to more buyers. Don’t forget about baseboards, door frames, and crown molding. Touching up these areas helps your home look finished and well cared for.

Painting small areas can be a quick weekend project with a big return. It also photographs better, which matters for online listings.

4. Make Sure Everything Works

Buyers often test things while touring a home. They flip light switches, turn on faucets, and open cabinets. If something’s broken or sticks, they notice—and that can raise concerns.

Go room by room and check the basics. Tighten door handles. Fix dripping faucets. Replace light bulbs. Make sure cabinet doors close properly and windows open easily.

These fixes are simple, but they show buyers that the home has been maintained. A house that “just works” leaves a good impression and helps build trust in your asking price.

5. Update Light Fixtures

Outdated lighting can make even a nice room feel old. Swapping out old light fixtures is an easy, affordable way to modernize your space.

Choose fixtures that are clean and simple. You don’t need high-end designer pieces—just something that feels fresh and fits with the rest of the home. Avoid overly trendy styles that might not appeal to everyone.

Good lighting also helps your home look better in photos. Make sure every room is well-lit, especially areas like hallways, entryways, and bathrooms. If any rooms are dim, consider adding a floor or table lamp.

6. Boost Your Curb Appeal

Your yard doesn’t need to look like a magazine cover, but it should feel neat and welcoming. Basic yard work goes a long way when prepping your home for sale.

Start with the lawn. Mow the grass, pull weeds, and trim any overgrown bushes. If the flower beds look empty, plant a few colorful flowers or add fresh mulch. Sweep the driveway and walkways. Remove any dead plants or debris.

Small details matter too. A new welcome mat, clean porch lights, and a painted front door can completely change how your home feels from the outside. Curb appeal makes buyers want to step inside, which is half the battle.

7. Create a Welcoming Entryway

Your entryway is the first thing buyers see up close. It should feel clean, calm, and inviting. Think of it as the opening scene to a movie—it sets the tone for what comes next.

Keep it simple. Remove any clutter like shoes, coats, or bags. Wipe down the door and surrounding area. If you have space, add a small bench or a narrow table with a vase of fresh flowers. Make sure the lighting is warm and soft, not harsh or dim.

The entryway is your chance to make buyers feel good right away. If they feel welcomed, they’re more likely to enjoy the rest of the tour.

Getting your home ready to sell doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Most of these updates are low-cost and easy to tackle in a weekend. You’re not aiming for perfection—you’re just creating a space that feels clean, updated, and cared for.

Start by looking at your home the way a buyer would. What stands out? What needs fixing? A little attention to detail can make a big difference in how quickly your home sells—and how much it sells for.

With the right prep, you’ll have buyers walking in, feeling impressed, and picturing themselves living there. And that’s what sells homes.