By Megan Mitchum + Co
Every detail counts when you’re getting ready to sell, and in a competitive market like Des Moines, presentation can make or break your results. We’ve worked with sellers across the metro who want top-dollar offers but aren’t sure how to get their home ready. That’s where we come in. With a few smart updates and the right strategy, you can turn your property into a buyer magnet without going overboard on cost or time.
Key Takeaways
- Buyers respond to clean lines, neutral finishes, and intentional spaces
- Small, targeted updates often outperform major renovations
- Staging helps buyers understand how rooms are meant to be used
- A buyer-ready home typically sells faster and with fewer concessions
Refresh Your Curb Appeal
Across the Des Moines Metro, curb appeal carries extra weight thanks to distinct seasons and varied home styles. Buyers form opinions before they ever step inside, so the exterior needs to signal that the home has been well cared for.
High-Impact Exterior Updates
- Spread fresh dark mulch and edge flower beds to create clean, defined landscaping lines
- Paint the front door in a classic, buyer-friendly color like deep blue, black, or warm gray
- Power wash siding, steps, and concrete to remove winter grime and algae buildup
- Replace faded house numbers and porch lighting with modern, easy-to-read fixtures
Declutter and Deep Clean Every Room
A cluttered home makes buyers focus on what doesn’t work instead of what does. Decluttering and cleaning allow the layout, light, and features to take center stage.
Areas Buyers Look At Closely
- Clear kitchen counters completely, leaving only one intentional item, like a cutting board or small plant
- Remove excess furniture, especially recliners, extra side tables, or oversized sectionals
- Pack away personal items, including family photos, kids’ artwork, and hobby collections
- Deep clean baseboards, vents, windows, and light fixtures, which buyers subconsciously associate with maintenance
Make Smart, High-Impact Updates
The goal isn’t perfection; it’s polish. Buyers in the Des Moines Metro want homes that feel current and move-in ready, even if they plan to personalize later.
Updates Buyers Notice Immediately
- Repaint walls in consistent neutral tones like warm white, soft greige, or light taupe to create flow
- Replace outdated light fixtures, especially brass or builder-grade flush mounts
- Swap cabinet knobs and drawer pulls in kitchens and bathrooms for matte black or brushed nickel
- Repair worn flooring or loose transitions, particularly near entryways and kitchens
Stage Your Home to Sell
Staging helps buyers understand scale, function, and lifestyle. It’s not about filling rooms; it’s about showing how each space can be used.
Practical Staging Techniques
- Arrange furniture to create clear walkways, especially in smaller living rooms
- Style the primary bedroom with crisp white bedding, matching lamps, and minimal décor
- Set up underused rooms as offices, reading nooks, or guest spaces rather than storage
- Add simple artwork and mirrors to brighten walls and reflect natural light
Don’t Forget Outdoor Spaces
Buyers in the Des Moines Metro appreciate usable outdoor areas, even if they’re small. Showing purpose matters more than size.
Ways to Showcase Outdoor Potential
- Stage a front porch with two chairs and a small table to suggest everyday use
- Power wash decks and patios, then add a clean outdoor rug or cushions
- Trim shrubs away from the house to let in more light and improve sightlines
- Store yard tools, toys, and hoses so the space feels intentional, not crowded
FAQs
How far in advance should I start preparing my home to sell?
Four to six weeks is ideal. This allows time for decluttering, touch-ups, and professional photos without rushing.
Do I need to fully renovate before selling?
Typically, no. Strategic cosmetic updates almost always deliver better returns than full remodels.
What rooms matter most to buyers?
Kitchens, living areas, and the primary bedroom carry the most influence. These should feel clean, updated, and well-staged.
Contact Us Today
Making your home buyer-ready is one of the most important steps in a successful sale, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. We help sellers prioritize the updates that matter, avoid unnecessary expenses, and position their homes to attract serious buyers.
If you're thinking about selling, reach out to us at Megan Mitchum + Co. We’ll help you prepare with confidence and showcase your home at its absolute best in the Des Moines market.
If you're thinking about selling, reach out to us at Megan Mitchum + Co. We’ll help you prepare with confidence and showcase your home at its absolute best in the Des Moines market.
