CHICAGO HOME SALE PREP

Sell Your Chicago Home Faster and For More

Our exclusive checklist guides you through every step, from curb appeal to closing day. Don't leave money on the table—get prepared the smart way.

Chicago Home Seller Checklist: From Curb Appeal to Closing Day

1. Prepare Your Home (1-3 months before listing)

  • Improve curb appeal: trim landscaping, plant flowers
  • Power wash siding, walkways, and driveway
  • Repair or replace damaged siding, gutters, or roof shingles
  • Paint or touch up exterior trim and front door
  • Ensure house numbers are visible and attractive
  • Clean windows and screens
  • Declutter and depersonalize all rooms
  • Deep clean entire house, including carpets and windows
  • Make minor repairs (e.g., fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors)
  • Touch up paint or repaint in neutral colors
  • Update light fixtures and switch plates if outdated
  • Organize closets and storage areas

2. Pre-Listing Tasks (2-4 weeks before listing)

  • Research and interview real estate agents
  • Choose a listing agent and sign agreement
  • Discuss pricing strategy with your agent
  • Schedule a professional home inspection
  • Address any major issues found in the inspection
  • Gather important documents (e.g., mortgage information, tax records)
  • Consider a pre-listing appraisal
  • Develop a plan for showings (e.g., where to go, what to do with pets)

3. Marketing Preparation (1-2 weeks before listing)

  • Schedule professional photography and videography
  • Prepare a detailed list of home improvements and updates
  • Compile a list of local amenities and neighborhood highlights
  • Create a fact sheet about your home (square footage, year built, etc.)
  • Discuss online and offline marketing strategies with your agent
  • Plan an open house schedule

4. Listing and Showing Period

  • Review and approve listing description and photos
  • Ensure your home is on the MLS and major real estate websites
  • Create a showing schedule that works for your family
  • Maintain cleanliness and staging between showings
  • Collect feedback from potential buyers and adjust strategy if needed
  • Keep valuables and personal information secure during showings

5. Offer and Negotiation Phase

  • Review all offers with your agent
  • Understand contingencies and terms in each offer
  • Prepare for multiple offer scenarios (if applicable)
  • Negotiate terms, including price, closing date, and contingencies
  • Get all changes in writing

6. Under Contract to Closing (30-45 days typically)

  • Choose a real estate attorney (if not already done)
  • Schedule and attend the buyer's home inspection
  • Negotiate any repair requests
  • Ensure your home appraises for the sale price
  • Schedule final utility readings
  • Begin packing and planning your move
  • Maintain the property's condition
  • Prepare for the final walk-through

7. Closing Day

  • Conduct a final walk-through of your empty home
  • Bring all necessary documents to closing
  • Bring photo ID and any additional required items
  • Turn over all keys, garage door openers, etc.
  • Cancel home insurance after closing
  • Celebrate your successful home sale!

Post-Closing

  • Ensure all utilities are transferred out of your name
  • Forward your mail to your new address
  • Leave a review for your real estate agent
  • Keep closing documents in a safe place for tax purposes

Remember, your real estate agent will guide you through this process and may have additional recommendations specific to the Chicago market and your unique property.