Thinking of listing your home this spring or summer?
In Metro Vancouver’s competitive market, first impressions matter more than ever—and not just in person. Most buyers will form an opinion of your home within seconds of seeing it online. The good news? You don’t need to gut your kitchen or start major renovations to make your home stand out. A few strategic updates can go a long way. Here are some high-impact, low-stress ways to get your home market-ready:
1. Start with a Deep Clean
Before anything else, clean like a buyer is coming over with a white glove. Pay attention to windows, baseboards, light switches, vents, and appliances. A spotless home suggests it’s been well maintained—something that can reassure potential buyers from the get-go.2. Declutter and Depersonalize
You want buyers to imagine their life in your space. That’s hard to do with overflowing bookshelves, crowded counters, or family photos everywhere. Aim for clean surfaces, open storage, and neutral decor. If possible, remove about 30–50% of your personal items. It may feel like a lot, but it makes a noticeable difference in photos and showings.3. Refresh with Paint and Lighting
A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most effective upgrades you can make. Stick to soft, light neutrals (like warm whites or pale greys) to brighten the space and appeal to more buyers. Swap dated light fixtures for something simple and modern, and make sure every room is well lit with warm-toned bulbs.4. Curb Appeal Counts
Buyers often do a drive-by before booking a showing. Make sure your exterior is just as inviting as the inside. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, weed garden beds, and consider adding planters or fresh mulch. A clean front porch and polished house numbers go a long way.5. Tackle Small Repairs
Loose handles, dripping taps, squeaky doors—these may seem minor, but buyers notice. Walk through your home and make a list of anything that needs fixing. Completing these small jobs before listing shows your home is move-in ready, and can help avoid concerns during a buyer’s inspection.6. Stage for Flow and Function
You don’t need to hire a professional stager, but try to arrange furniture to highlight space and natural light. Remove anything that blocks pathways or windows. If you’ve repurposed a dining area into a home office or a bedroom into storage, consider returning rooms to their original function for clarity.7. Get Professional Photos
Once your home is prepped, make sure it’s captured properly. High-quality real estate photography can dramatically improve how your listing performs online—and that’s where most buyers start their search. Great lighting, wide angles, and thoughtful framing make a real difference.Final Tip: Don’t Wait for Perfection
It’s easy to get caught in the “just one more project” trap. While prepping your home is important, you don’t need to make it perfect—just polished, clean, and welcoming. A good real estate agent will guide you through where to invest your time and energy for the best return.Thinking about selling your home this season?
A few small tweaks can make a big difference—and we’re here to help you focus on what matters most.
📩 Let’s chat about your home prep strategy »
Whether you’re planning to list soon or just getting started, we’re happy to guide you through every step.
Whether you’re planning to list soon or just getting started, we’re happy to guide you through every step.