Preparing your inherited property for the market.

Once you have cleared the property to sell legally you will then have to prepare it to sell physically. Here is a five step guide on what to do to prepare your inherited property for sale:

Five Steps to Take Before Listing Your Home

1. Consider a pre-sale home inspection

A professional inspector can identify issues that might concern potential buyers. Knowing about these problems ahead of time allows you to make repairs before showings and avoid surprises during negotiations.

2. Organize and clean

Reduce clutter by packing up items you rarely use—small appliances, off-season clothing, toys, and holiday décor. Store them neatly in the garage, basement, or off-site. Then give your home a thorough cleaning, including windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards, so everything looks bright and welcoming.

3. Get estimates for major replacements

If you have large items nearing the end of their lifespan—such as an aging roof or worn carpeting—get estimates for repair or replacement, even if you don’t plan to complete the work yourself. This information helps buyers understand potential future costs and can be useful during negotiations.

4. Gather warranties and manuals

Collect warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for appliances and systems that will stay with the house, such as the furnace, dishwasher, and washer/dryer. Having this information organized early prevents last-minute delays or missing paperwork when closing time comes.

5. Improve curb appeal

View your home from a buyer’s perspective. As you walk toward the front door, note your first impressions. Is the yard tidy? Are the shrubs trimmed? Is the house number easy to read? Does the entryway feel welcoming? Make sure the walkway is in good condition and the exterior looks well cared-for.