You have likely heard about how you should depersonalize your home when you are listing it for sale. It’s not just about increasing buyer appeal… it’s also about privacy, safety, and security. Here are top things to remove before listing photos are taken and showings begin.
Remove personal photos and kids’ names – this can be a safety and security issue, but you also want it to feel neutral so they can envision themselves living there, not feeling like they are invading someone else’s home
Surveillance cameras – if you use them, including Ring doorbells, buyers should be clearly notified… people don’t like being recorded without knowing, and you don’t want to create a legal issue
Remove valuables – this includes jewelry, valuable watches, collectibles, artwork… and anything valuable to you even though it may not have high monetary value but could be broken or carried out easily should be removed
Medications – this is a big one… not only addictive medications, but also other expensive medications that buyers could target should be removed for showings
Personal bills and sensitive documents – don’t leave out bills, bank/investment paperwork, or anything with personal details… lock filing cabinets
Evidence of distress or desperation – buyers are observant… you want the home to present as stable and well-kept, not looking like you are desperate to sell
Sharlene Hensrud, RE/MAX Results – shensrud@homesmsp.com
