Is Your Home Summer-Ready? A Pre-Listing Checklist for Salem Sellers

Is Your Home Summer-Ready?

A Pre-Listing Checklist for Salem Sellers

If you're planning to sell this summer, now’s the time to get your home looking its best. Summer is one of the most active seasons for buyers in Salem—but it’s also when your competition steps up their game. A clean, prepped, and well-presented home will not only stand out, it could help you sell faster and for more money.

Here’s your go-to summer prep checklist to make sure your home is ready to impress.

✅ Exterior & Curb Appeal

• Tidy up landscaping: Mow the lawn, edge borders, prune shrubs, and add fresh bark or mulch. Colorful annuals like petunias or marigolds add instant charm.

• Wash exterior surfaces: Pressure wash siding, walkways, and the driveway. Clear cobwebs and debris from the porch and entry.

• Clean the windows: Sparkling windows make a huge difference—inside and out.

• Freshen up paint: Touch up trim or repaint faded areas, especially around the front door.

• Check your roof and gutters: Make sure they’re clean and in good shape.

🏡 Interior Readiness

• Declutter and depersonalize: Clear surfaces, remove excess furniture, and put away personal items.

• Deep clean everything: Think baseboards, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and carpets.

• Maximize natural light: Open curtains, wash windows, and replace any burnt-out lightbulbs.

• Cool and comfortable: Make sure your HVAC is working well—buyers will notice on hot days.

🎯 Strategic Touches

• Stage for the season: Swap out heavy blankets or dark decor for lighter colors and breathable fabrics. Think fresh, airy, and inviting.

• Highlight outdoor living: If you’ve got a patio, deck, or yard—clean it up and set it up. A cozy table, string lights, or potted plants can turn it into a selling point.

• Schedule professional photos: Late spring and early summer offer the best natural light and lush backdrops. Don’t wait until everything’s sun-scorched.

Bonus Tip: Go “Preview” First

Ask us about preview status in the MLS—it lets you pre-market your home to agents before it goes live to the public. That early buzz can lead to stronger offers.

Ready to List This Summer?

If you're thinking about selling, we’ll guide you through every step—from prep to sold. Let’s talk strategy and get your home summer-ready now.

👉 Start with a free home value estimate