02/19/2026
Are you thinking of listing your home this spring? Here are the top 4 things my buyer will notice on a walk through of a potential home:
Smell - Avoid cooking foods with lingering smells the day before or of showings. The first impression a potential buyer will have is that first step into a home and yesterday's fish fry isn't going to make everyone happy. (Too many air fresheners or candles warming is a red flag for a lot of potential buyers as well!)
Clutter - Clutter makes a potential buyer wonder what has been overlooked in the home. Large amounts of clutter in main living areas also suggests the home has a lack of storage. Declutter and get ahead of the curve by packing the rest of it before listing!
Unfinished Projects - That piece of trim you've been meaning to put up, the one cracked tile you've been meaning to replace. Each item may seem minimal but to a potential buyer each item is an immediate fix they need to make. Knock out those projects and make the potential buyer feel like they have less to do. (And save yourself a long repair list while under contract!)
Lighting - This may seem like a no brainer but lighting makes such a difference! Have blackout curtains in all of your bedrooms? Mis-matched tones of light bulbs? Burned out bulbs in the basement? Take care of replacing the bulbs and make sure when a potential buyer sees your property for the first time they aren't stumbling around in the dark to find a light switch!
If you are thinking of moving this year reach out for my full listing preparation guide. The spring market is already here and now is your chance to get ahead!
Whether you are looking to buy your first home, broaden your portfolio, or planning on selling, reach out today and let's start on your timeline!
📱815.543.2269 ✉️[email protected] 🖥John Cady - Century 21 Affiliated🏡
