S
elling your home quickly and for a good price requires some preparation. While spring is considered the best time to sell, it's still a seller's market, so you can expect a great price. However, if you want to get top dollar and attract buyers fast, follow these four essential steps: deep clean, declutter, depersonalize, and freshen up.

    Luxury real estate agents at Coldwell Banker Warburg emphasize the importance of making a good first impression. "Buyers make emotional decisions, not rational ones," says Jennifer Roberts. A dirty or cluttered home can give the wrong impression, making buyers think it's smaller than it is and worth less. Real estate agent Michael Weiner adds that even small details like walls, windows, and ceilings contribute to this initial impression.

    Buyers are also influenced by their emotional connection to a space. "They don't want to see someone else's belongings cluttering up the place," Roberts explains. A clean and decluttered home allows buyers to visualize themselves living there. According to Ava Anz, many buyers know within seconds if a house is right for them.

    A clean, decluttered space also helps buyers imagine how their own style and belongings would fit in. To showcase your home's best features without clutter, remove unnecessary items and personal touches. Depersonalizing goes beyond just removing family photos; it's about creating a neutral atmosphere that allows buyers to focus on the property itself.

    Real estate broker Ellen Sykes notes that buyers have trouble imagining a space looking different from what they see. A vivid purple wall may be pleasing to you, but not to potential buyers. Personal pictures and memorabilia can also be off-putting. Cleaning and decluttering makes your home seem new, even if it's not. Fresh paint and neutral colors can make a big difference.

    To create a fresh start for buyers, real estate agent Jane Katz advises cleaning windows, counters, and closets, and making sure the home smells nice. Remove personal items, clean or replace the doormat, and keep everything in its place. By following these steps, you'll be more likely to attract buyers and sell your home quickly and for a good price.