Prepping your home for the market is an exciting step, and we’re here to guide you through it. With the right strategy and a little upfront effort, you can boost your home’s appeal and potentially its value before it ever hits the market.
At Team Prata, we’ve helped hundreds of clients sell with confidence. Our marketing approach is built for today’s buyers, using high impact video, stunning photography, and powerful online exposure to make sure your home stands out from the start.
There’s no need to have everything picture perfect for our first visit. We’ve walked through homes with toys on the floor, dishes in the sink, and laundry in the hallway. It's real life, and we get it. We’ll walk through the space together, offer clear guidance on what to improve, and create a personalized plan to get your home photo ready.
Our listings have set records in neighborhoods across Durham Region and beyond not just because of the homes themselves, but because of the preparation, presentation, and strategy behind them.
Let’s connect and make sure your home makes the best first impression both online and in person.
Before we list your home, we’re happy to walk through it with you and offer honest, practical advice on how to make it shine. We’ll go room by room and point out simple improvements that can make a big impact many of which cost little or nothing at all.
Our goal is to help you sell faster and for more, without unnecessary stress or spending. Every suggestion is made with intention, based on what we know works in today’s market. We’re here to help you maximize your results, plain and simple.
Lighting can completely change how a home feels. Before we hit the market, take a moment to check that all light bulbs are working, yes, even the ones you forgot about. A bright, well-lit space feels bigger, cleaner, and more welcoming to buyers.
From kitchen fixtures to hallway lamps, outdoor lights to the oven hood if it has a bulb, give it a quick check. We’ll have everything turned on for photo day to make sure your home shines in the best light, literally. If any light fixtures need a quick update, we’re happy to give suggestions that can modernize the space without breaking the bank.
One of the best things you can do to get your home ready to sell is to clear out the clutter. Grab some boxes, check your local Facebook groups or stores for free ones and start packing up anything you don’t use daily.
Think of it as getting a jump on your move and giving buyers the chance to truly see the space. When rooms, closets, and pantries are tidy and open, it’s easier for people to imagine themselves living there. Take a cue from model homes clean, simple, and lived-in just enough. Less really does go a long way.
Once you’ve packed up the extras, think about where it all should go. Whether it’s a few boxes, oversized furniture, or everyday items that take up space, it’s a smart move to store them out of sight either in the garage, neatly stacked, or in a short-term storage unit.
If any furniture feels too bulky, worn, or tired, it might make more sense to leave the space open and let the room breathe. We’ll work with you to create a simple game plan that highlights your home’s best features and helps buyers focus on the space, not the stuff.
To make showings smooth and secure, we’ll need an extra set of house keys for the lockbox. This allows licensed Realtors to access your home during scheduled showings.
Appointments are booked through an easy-to-use app called ShowingTime. You’ll always be notified by text when a request comes in, and no one enters your home without your approval. Most showings are booked a day in advance, giving you plenty of time to prepare.
We’ll walk you through the whole process so everything feels simple and stress-free.
Bathrooms make a big impression, so let’s keep them clean, bright, and inviting. Clear the counters of everyday products and stash away anything that doesn’t need to be seen, less is definitely more here.
Consider picking up a few crisp white towels to hang neatly on the racks and swap out bold shower curtains for something light and neutral. These small touches go a long way in helping the space feel spa-like and refreshed, which buyers will love.
Buyers almost always fall in love or walk away,in the kitchen. It’s the heart of the home, so this is one space you definitely don’t want to overlook.
Keep the countertops clear and clutter-free. Tuck away small appliances, remove fridge magnets, photos, and sticky notes, and give the inside of the oven, microwave, and fridge a good clean. If you’ve got décor above the cabinets, now’s a great time to pack it up. It tends to collect dust and can distract from the space.
To give the kitchen a fresh, welcoming feel, try adding a simple touch like a bowl of lemons or fresh flowers in a glass vase. Clean, bright, and intentional always wins.
Bedrooms should feel like a place to relax and unwind just like a beautiful hotel suite. Start by clearing out anything that makes the space feel crowded or overly personal. Tidy up nightstands, remove any bulky furniture, and keep décor minimal.
If needed, consider upgrading to a fresh, neutral duvet or a soft white comforter to give the bed that clean, crisp look. White sheets and at least four pillows on each bed instantly elevate the space. We’re aiming for cozy, clean, and inviting a space buyers can picture themselves waking up in.
A spacious, organized closet can be a big selling point so let’s make yours feel as open as possible. Take a few minutes to go through what you haven’t worn in the past year, including shoes and accessories. Now’s the perfect time to pack those items away or consider donating them.
The less that’s on display, the bigger the space feels. Neatly arranged shelves and fewer clothes hanging will help buyers see the full potential of the closet, not just what’s in it.
Small plumbing issues can leave a big impression so let’s get ahead of them. Fix any dripping faucets, slow drains, or minor leaks before hitting the market. These little things can raise red flags for buyers, even if they’re easy fixes.
If your kitchen or bathroom faucets are dated, swapping them out for something clean and modern is a simple, affordable way to freshen up the space. It is those subtle upgrades that can make your home feel well cared for and move-in ready. Need help? We’re happy to recommend reliable local pros.
The living room should feel open, clean, and welcoming. Start by giving the couch and chairs a good refresh, vacuum the cushions, fluff the pillows, and consider adding a few light or neutral throw pillows for a fresh look.
Tuck away anything that creates visual clutter like magazine stacks, remote collections, or charging cords. Hide visible wires from TVs or speakers, especially for photo and video day. A few family photos are totally fine, but keep it minimal so buyers can picture themselves in the space.
Think simple, bright, and comfortable, the kind of space that makes people want to sit down and stay awhile.
Your dining room should feel like a space for gathering, not a catch-all for daily life. Clear off the table completely, including schoolwork, paperwork, or anything else that tends to pile up. If you have a hutch or sideboard, give it a quick tidy so it looks organized and clutter-free.
Keep the table setting minimal: a single, simple centerpiece like fresh flowers or a decorative bowl works perfectly. Clean, calm, and intentional will always make the best impression.
Before you start packing, take a moment to ask yourself do I really need to bring this to the next house? Storing things you no longer use just adds time, effort, and unnecessary cost.
Start by creating three simple piles: keep, donate, or toss. If you have not used it in over a year, it is probably time to let it go. Gently used items can be donated to local charities, or you can post them for free or for sale in your neighbourhood Facebook groups. Hosting a quick garage sale is also a great way to clear space and lighten the load.
The goal is simple, move only what matters, and let go of the rest. You will thank yourself later.
The moment a buyer steps through your front door, the tone is set and that first impression happens fast. Make it count by creating an entrance that feels clean, cared for, and welcoming.
Start with the basics: sweep the porch, tuck away hoses and clutter, and pull any weeds around the entry. If your front door could use a refresh, a quick coat of paint goes a long way. Consider adding a simple welcome mat, a seasonal wreath, or a pop of colour with potted flowers. Fresh cushions on patio chairs can also help create that cozy, lived-in feel.
And if your walkway or driveway is looking a little tired, a quick power wash can instantly boost curb appeal. Little touches add up and make a big impact before buyers even step inside.
The backyard is often where buyers imagine relaxing, entertaining, or watching their kids play so let’s make sure it feels just right.
Keep the lawn trimmed, gardens tidy, and remove any weeds or debris. If you have outdoor furniture, arrange it to create a welcoming vibe. For homes with a pool, make sure the water is crystal clear and the tiles are clean and polished. These small details help buyers see the backyard not just as a yard but as an extension of their future lifestyle.
Once your home hits the market, it shifts from being your space to a product buyers are trying to imagine themselves living in. To get top dollar, it needs to appeal to a wide range of people and that starts with making it feel less personal.
Take a walk through each room with fresh eyes. If you were seeing it for the first time, would you be able to picture your life there? Tuck away personal photos, kids’ artwork, bold decor, and anything that might distract from the space itself. The goal is simple: help buyers connect with the home, not the people living in it.
One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to refresh your home before selling is a fresh coat of paint. It can instantly brighten up a space, cover scuffs and marks, and help buyers see the home in its best light.
Stick to light, neutral tones in the kitchen, living spaces, and hallways; these shades tend to make rooms feel larger and more inviting. While bedrooms can sometimes handle a pop of color, we’ll guide you on what works best. Bold or dated colors may be personal favorites, but they can be distracting for buyers.
And don’t forget the details: baseboards, trim, and ceilings can benefit from a quick touch-up in clean white to give everything a polished finish. A favorite go-to? Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” is a versatile color that works beautifully in most homes. We’re happy to help you make the right call for your space.
Now’s the time to take care of those small repairs you’ve been meaning to get to. Walk through your home and jot down anything that needs a quick fix like leaky faucets, loose handles, squeaky doors, or nail holes in the walls.
These minor details might seem small, but buyers notice them. Taking care of them upfront shows your home has been well cared for and makes a strong first impression. Don’t forget to replace your air filters too it helps with air quality and is one of those subtle things buyers appreciate.
If you’re not a DIY type, no worries. A quick visit from a handyman can knock out the list in no time. Small effort, big return.
Clean windows can completely transform a space. We recommend hiring a professional to remove dust, water spots, and streaks so your home feels brighter and more welcoming especially on photo and video day.
Unless your carpets are brand new, a deep steam clean is a smart move. It refreshes the entire home and leaves a lasting impression. If you have tile, consider cleaning the grout to give it that polished look. If the floors are showing their age, we’ll talk through replacement options that add value without overextending your budget.
A spotless home sets the tone for every showing. While you can tackle it yourself, bringing in a professional cleaner ensures nothing gets missed from baseboards to ceiling fans. Some sellers even keep a cleaning service going during the listing period to keep everything showing-ready.
Not everyone loves animals the way we do. For showings and media day, hide all signs of pets bowls, litter boxes, beds, and crates. When possible, arrange for pets to be out of the house during showings to avoid distractions or allergic reactions.
Toys are a part of life, but they don’t need to be the center of attention during a showing. Keep a few neatly organized and tuck the extras away in closets or storage bins. Artwork and craft projects are great memories but during showings, less is more.
A fresh-smelling home is key, but avoid going overboard with air fresheners. Focus on eliminating the source of any odors clean over cover. Stick to light, clean scents like citrus or vanilla, and avoid strong cooking smells before showings.
Sometimes small staging tweaks can make a big difference. Whether it’s editing furniture, swapping out decor, or bringing in a few pieces, we’ll guide you on how to make your home shine without overdoing it.
This is the big moment. Plan to have every light on and blinds open natural light is your best friend. Our photographer and videographer will bring out the best angles and details of your home. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll reschedule to make sure your home is captured in its best light. Your home’s website and listing typically go live within 48 hours.
Before showings begin, do one last sweep of every room. Check for clutter, adjust decor, and remove anything that might distract buyers. Fresh eyes catch things you might miss.
Leave a great impression by leaving bottled water and a few light snacks on the counter with a kind note. It goes a long way. Turn on soft music and all lights before you leave. Be sure to secure valuables, medications, and anything personal.
Many of our clients check off everything on this list in less than a week. Don’t stress, we're here to support you every step of the way. If you need help, recommendations, or a hand with anything, just reach out. That’s what we’re here for.