30 Days to Market: Your Mid-Missouri Home Prep Guide

Feeling the pinch to get your home ready for the market? Overwhelmed doesn't have to be your status. With some organization and a bit of effort, you can get your Mid-Missouri home spot-on for prospective buyers in just a month. Here’s a straightforward plan tailored to our local market, ensuring your home not only lists but sells.

Day 1-7: Declutter and Deep Clean

Kick things off by decluttering. Yes, that means diving into every closet, drawer, and the dreaded garage. Mid-Missouri buyers yearn for space and simplicity. Don't just think about hiding things away. Consider a temporary storage unit or better yet, donate or sell items to local thrift stores or online marketplaces. Following the decluttering, deep clean like there’s no tomorrow. Scrub, dust, and polish until your home sparkles. If the task seems daunting, professional cleaners are worth their weight in gold, particularly in areas with hard water or unique challenges like removing lake debris in lakefront properties.

Day 8-14: Repairs and Exterior Facelift

Next up, fix anything that’s broken. This includes the leaky faucet you’ve learned to ignore and the cracked tile in the bathroom. In the Mid-Missouri market, potential buyers are particularly keen on maintenance issues being addressed before they buy. Once the interiors are in order, turn your attention outward. Curb appeal has a major impact on first impressions. Tend to your lawn regularly, trim the hedges, and consider adding colorful, native plants to your landscaping. A pressure washed driveway and a welcoming front door color can also significantly enhance appeal.

Day 15-21: Update and Stage

Consider minor upgrades. A fresh coat of paint in living areas, updated hardware in kitchens and bathrooms, and modern lighting fixtures can dramatically elevate your home's appeal without a hefty price tag. When it comes time to stage, think minimally. Mid-Missouri buyers appreciate open, airy spaces that suggest comfort and possibility. Hire a professional stager if you’re unsure how to maximize your space—sometimes, a fresh set of eyes can transform a room.

Day 22-27: Capture the Beauty

Your home’s looking great, so let's show it off. Hire a professional photographer to capture your home in the best light. Photography is crucial, especially in our digitally-driven market, where most Mid-Missouri buyers first encounter your home online. A pro can highlight the unique features of your home, like hardwood floors or custom cabinetry, with skill and style.

Day 28-30: Showtime

Lastly, prep for showings. Ensuring your home remains clean and inviting is key. Remove personal items to help buyers envision their lives in your space. Mid-Missouri buyers are looking for a home where they can start fresh. Before showings, open all curtains to let natural light in and perhaps bake some cookies for that universally appealing fresh-baked smell.

P.S. As your Mid-Missouri real estate guide, I’m here to help at every step—from recommending trustworthy cleaners and skilled contractors to arranging for that perfect home photographer. I’m dedicated to making your home sale as smooth and successful as possible. Ready to get started? Let’s chat.