Most Homeowners Fail This Simple Test—Will You? [FREE DOWNLOAD]

Last Updated on March 31, 2025 by Patricia Omishakin

Most Homeowners Fail This Simple Test—Will You? In today’s competitive housing market, where inventory is rising and buyers have more options, it’s not just about listing your home—it’s about positioning it for success.

Buyers are more informed and selective than ever. With endless scrolling on Zillow and Redfin, your home has only seconds to make a great first impression online and even less time in person. So how can you make sure your home stands out—and doesn’t get overlooked?

I’m Patricia Omishakin, a Real Estate Advisor with Elam Real Estate. I’ve helped dozens of families just like yours sell their homes with confidence. Whether you’re preparing to list in a few weeks or you’re still weighing your options, this in-depth readiness test will help you understand what matters most to buyers and how to make smart, cost-effective improvements that increase both your home’s value and appeal.

Let’s walk through the categories buyers care most about and see how your home measures up.

1. First Impressions Start at the Curb

Think of your home’s exterior as the cover of a book. Will buyers be excited to see what’s inside—or will they drive by without a second glance?

When buyers pull up to your property, their subconscious is already forming opinions. Your job is to make that impression a positive one.

Here’s what to check:

Lawn and landscaping: A clean, mowed yard with fresh mulch and trimmed bushes makes a home feel well-maintained.

Front door and trim: A freshly painted door in a bold but classic color (like navy, black, or red) can pop in photos and elevate your exterior.

Lighting and walkways: Ensure lights are working and clean, and the path to the door is free of cracks, weeds, or debris.

💡 Pro tip: A new garage door is one of the highest-ROI exterior upgrades, offering up to a 98% return.

2. Declutter, Depersonalize, and Deep Clean

Inside your home, the goal is simple: help buyers visualize themselves living there. That means minimizing distractions and maximizing space.

Declutter: Start with surfaces—kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, nightstands—and move on to storage areas like closets and pantries. Buyers WILL open them.

Depersonalize: Remove family photos, bold artwork, or highly specific décor that might distract buyers. Neutral spaces help them project their own life into the home.

Deep clean: From ceiling fans and vents to grout lines and baseboards, your home should sparkle. A clean home signals care and reassures buyers about maintenance.

📌 Pro tip: Hire a professional cleaner for a one-time deep clean—it’s well worth the investment.

3. Paint and Flooring: Are They Helping or Hurting?

One of the quickest and most affordable ways to refresh a space is with paint. Even if your colors are stylish, anything too bold or personal can limit your buyer pool.

Choose neutral tones like warm grays, greige, or crisp whites.

Avoid trends that may not age well, like bright accent walls or overly dark tones in small rooms.

Flooring also plays a critical role in how buyers perceive your home:

If carpets are stained or have lingering odors, consider replacing them. Clean carpets still look tired if they’re worn or outdated.

Hardwood floors are always in style, but if yours are scratched or dull, consider refinishing.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring has become a top choice for its modern look, durability, and affordability.

🎯 Pro tip: paint and flooring are two of the highest-impact improvements you can make before selling.

4. Kitchen and Bathrooms: Where Buyers Pay Extra Attention

These two rooms can make or break the sale—even if the rest of the house looks great.

Buyers view kitchens and bathrooms as “big-ticket” areas. Fortunately, you don’t have to fully renovate to make a strong impression:

In the Kitchen:

Paint the cabinets and add modern hardware

Replace dated light fixtures

Consider quartz countertops or an affordable butcher block

Add a backsplash in a neutral, timeless style

In the Bathroom:

Replace mirrors, faucets, or light fixtures

Reglaze an old tub or tile instead of replacing it

Add modern towel bars, TP holders, and a fresh vanity

Even minor updates can create a move-in-ready feel that gives buyers confidence and gets you a better offer.

5. The Smell Test: What Buyers Will Notice Immediately

We become immune to the smells in our own homes—but buyers are walking in with fresh senses.

Pets: Love your dog? So do I. But pet odors—especially in carpet or upholstery—are red flags to buyers.

Cooking smells: Lingering odors from spicy dishes or fried foods can be off-putting. Before showings, avoid cooking anything with strong smells.

Smoke or musty odors: These are among the hardest to eliminate. Consider professional cleaning or an ozone treatment if necessary.

✔️ Pro tip: Open windows, use light-scented air fresheners, or bake something simple like cookies to create a pleasant environment.

6. Know the Competition: How Does Your Home Compare?

Every seller thinks their home is the best on the block—but buyers are comparing photos, finishes, and prices across dozens of listings.

Are similar homes in your neighborhood updated—or outdated?

Is your price aligned with recent sales?

Do you have features that make your home stand out—or do you need to create those through presentation?

This is where working with a knowledgeable agent makes all the difference. I’ll help you evaluate the competition and create a plan to position your home for maximum success.

7. Staging That Helps Buyers Fall in Love

Staging is about more than furniture—it’s about creating a feeling. A well-staged home makes buyers pause, envision their life there, and feel emotionally connected.

Remove large or outdated furniture that makes rooms feel smaller

Add soft, modern touches—pillows, artwork, greenery, table settings

Use lighting strategically to highlight focal points and create warmth

At Elam Real Estate, we offer a complimentary staging consultation with every listing. I’ll help you use what you already have—or suggest simple additions—to transform your space.

So, Will Your Home Pass the Test?

Let’s recap. To prepare your home for a successful sale in today’s market, ask yourself:

Is it clean, neutral, and move-in ready?

Does it stand out online and in person?

Have you made the improvements that buyers actually value?

Would your home hold its own against similar listings in your area?

If you’re unsure, I’ve created a resource to guide you.

Download Your Free TOP Updates When Selling Your House

This FREE list gives you a clear breakdown of which home updates provide the highest return on investment, with simple checklists and real-world tips to get your home market-ready.

📥 Click here to download your free copy

You’ll learn:

The most affordable updates with the biggest impact

What today’s buyers expect—and what turns them off

How to prepare your home room by room

Want Personalized Advice?

If you’re thinking of selling within the next 3–6 months, now is the perfect time to schedule a pre-listing consultation.

📞 Call or text me at 615-730-0037, or visit GetYourHomeEstimate.com to request a free home value report and get custom guidance on what your home needs to sell faster and for more money.

Let’s make sure your home doesn’t just pass the test—but stands out as the top pick in your neighborhood.