How to Prepare Your Home for Sale This Spring

Spring is the perfect time to sell your home in Ottawa — the snow melts, the flowers bloom, and buyers come out in full force. To ensure your property stands out in a competitive market, follow these essential preparation steps organized by category.

1. Curb Appeal: Make a Great First Impression

Clean up any remaining snow or debris from winter.
Rake the lawn, trim hedges, and add fresh mulch to garden beds.
Plant early spring flowers (like tulips or pansies).
Power wash walkways, siding, and porches.
Touch up peeling paint on trim, doors, or fences.
Add a new welcome mat and seasonal decor.

2. Deep Spring Cleaning: Sparkle Inside and Out

Clean windows inside and out.
Dust baseboards, ceiling fans, and blinds.
Shampoo carpets and mop all floors.
Declutter closets, countertops, and storage spaces.
Organize kitchen cabinets and remove unnecessary items.
Eliminate pet or cooking odors with air purifiers or diffusers.

3. Minor Repairs & Touch-Ups

Patch and paint any holes or scuffs on walls.
Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or cracked tiles.
Replace burned-out light bulbs and upgrade to warm LED lighting.
Make sure all windows open and close properly.
Inspect and update caulking around sinks and bathtubs.

4. Staging for Spring Vibes

Use light and airy linens, cushions, and throws.
Add vases with fresh flowers like tulips or daffodils.
Use mirrors to reflect light and make rooms feel larger.
Set the dining table with spring-themed decor.
Remove heavy winter rugs or dark curtains.

5. Pre-Listing Prep & Professional Photography

Hire a professional real estate photographer.
Capture golden hour exterior shots for warmth and appeal.
Ensure each room is well-lit and decluttered for the shoot.
Stage key areas: kitchen, primary bedroom, and living room.

6. Don’t Forget Outdoor Living Spaces

Clean the patio or deck.
Arrange outdoor furniture with bright cushions or pillows.
Set up a BBQ or firepit area.
Add string lights or lanterns for ambiance.
Create a cozy, staged seating area to show outdoor potential.

Final Tip: Work with a Local Expert

Spring moves fast in the Ottawa real estate market. Partner with a local real estate agent (like me!) to navigate pricing, marketing, and timing strategies so your home shines and sells at its highest potential.