So you have decided to move... well let's not mince words or lose Buyers! You get one first impression that helps the Buyer decide if they like your home, if they feel the price is right or if they can start deducting for "things". Let's not let that happen. First Pricing prep= have your Realtor run a CMA to get you an average fair market value for that period of time. That will tell you about how much you can work towards. The Market decides the value and Appraisers at time of sale will use the market to support your contract amount, so be realistic and non-emotional when setting your target list price. Second- detach the emotion from the process. Look at your place as a place not a home. Money put into a home is returned in enjoyment and use not dollar for dollar compensation at time of sale. Refer back to the market comps and adjustments from your Realtor if you feel yourself attaching to the costs of your improvements. Third- you get 1 chance at a first impression. That impression includes photos, price, and literal visual viewing so make sure the yard is colorful not plain; clean not cluttered. Remove vehicles from driveway and street front before your Realtor photographs your home. What do you see when you pull up? Clear which door is the front access? Window coverings look good from the outside? Pretty flowers, mowed lawn? INSIDE: no clutter, minimal personal photos (Buyers stop looking at house and focus on people), Remove any furniture that clutters, Clean woodstoves and fireplaces from soot. Make rooms have a specific purpose, and feel open. Remove tattered window coverings. Clean and flush toilets, clean inside of showers. Box up unnecessary items and stack in storage or garage. A little inconvenience now leads to better pay later. Some Sellers get appraisal and / or inspection ahead of time and correct items ahead of listing. This allows the Realtor to utilize the process in positive marketing and support the listing price. Pay now or pay later, the issue will still need to be addressed, With a little work and a strong team on your side you can obtain a positive sales price to assist you in your new real estate goals Good Luck!