Speed to $old: Your 10-Point Listing Launch Checklist

Welcome back to America’s #1 Daily Podcast,  featuring America’s #1 Real Estate Coaches and Top EXP Realty Sponsors in the World, Tim and Julie Harris. Ready to become an EXP Realty Agent and join Tim and Julie Harris?  Visit: https://whylibertas.com/harris or text Tim directly at 512-758-0206.

You’ve secured a new listing—congratulations! Now comes the real challenge: delivering outstanding results for your sellers. Whether they’re first-time sellers, luxury clients, or relocating executives, they all want the same thing: the most money, in the least amount of time, with the fewest headaches.

Even in a low-inventory market, your job is to prepare, present, and market the home like a pro. In a competitive environment, it’s not optional—it’s essential. This checklist ensures your next listing is positioned to sell fast and for top dollar—starting before the first showing even happens.

Start With the Right Conversation

Before diving into the prep list, set expectations with your sellers. How they live in their home while it’s on the market must be different from how they live day-to-day. Use this list as your go-to prep plan.

1. Curb Appeal and First Impressions Matter Most

Buyers make decisions in two key places:

• From the street
• In the foyer

Make both of these areas shine!

• Upgrade landscaping: Weed, mulch, trim, and green it up.
• Front door matters: Paint it, add a wreath, remove storm doors, and make it photo-worthy.
• Welcome touches: Clean doormat, potted plants, maybe even a new door knocker.
• Declutter the foyer: No coat trees, extra chairs, or clutter. Think bright, open, and spacious.

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2. Remove Excess Furniture

Help buyers feel the flow of the home without obstacles.

• Create space: Think about three adults with coats walking through—can they move freely?
• Consign, donate, or store: Use Home Consignment Centers, shelters, or storage for large or unnecessary items.
• Remove distractions: Pool tables, oversized TVs, workout gear, and pet furniture should go. And of course that hot tub has to go too!

3. Have a Pet Plan

Not everyone loves pets—and some buyers are allergic. Avoid instant turn-offs.

• Doggie daycare or pet sitter: Keep animals out of the home during showings.
• Remove evidence: Pet beds, litter boxes, and food bowls should be stowed away.
• Also, no one loves snakes at a showing! (Yes this came out on a coaching call).

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4. Eliminate Odors

Smells—any kind—can tank a showing fast.

• Address root causes: Cat urine, smoke, cooking spices, or mustiness must be eliminated.
• Replace soft surfaces: Remove curtains, rugs, or furniture that hold odors.
• Invest in an air ionizer: Run it between showings for fresh air every time.

5. Pre-Inspect and Fix What Matters

Avoid last-minute deal-breakers by getting ahead of inspection issues.

• Prioritize key systems: HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and safety items.
• Do basic maintenance: Change furnace filters, dust the water heater, check for mold.
• Provide documentation: Share inspection reports and receipts for completed repairs.

6. Create a Stunning Brochure

High-end marketing works—no matter the price point.

• Professional photos are non-negotiable.
• Use Canva or outsource: If it’s not your strength, borrow from top agents’ best practices.

7. Preview the Competition

Before launch day, preview other listings—especially if your listing will compete for attention. The more competing listings there are, the more careful you must be about pricing!

• Adjust pricing if needed: Make sure it aligns with nearby active inventory as well as pendings.
• Take sellers along: Help them understand pricing strategy by seeing the competition. Set up a Preview Afternoon.
• Know the incentives: Builders and other listings may offer perks your client needs to meet or beat.

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8. Touch Up Paint and Walls

Scuffs and grime scream “worn down.”

• Use a Magic Eraser to eliminate shoe marks and smudges.
• Paint if needed to refresh key rooms or trim.

9. Don’t Neglect the Backyard

The backyard, porch, or deck can make or break a deal.

• Fix fences, clean patios, and stage the space.
• Add visual screens to block eyesores or neighbors.
• Appeal to lifestyle: Think kids, pets, grilling, or relaxing.

10. Nail the Property Description

Your listing description is your ad. Make it irresistible.

• Skip vague terms like “neutral décor” or “open floorplan.”
• Use specific, emotional language.
• Ask ChatGPT to help craft or refine your copy.
• Borrow from top-performing listings until you develop your own voice.

Final Tip: Leverage Coaching for Maximum Impact

For even more help with listing systems, seller conversations, and pricing strategies, sign up for Premier Coaching today—it’s free to start.

Ready to take it further?

Join Tim & Julie Harris for a FREE Online Mastermind and discover how top agents are crushing the 3 biggest challenges in today’s market. No fluff. All action.
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