Checklist: Getting Your Home Ready to Sell in 30 Days

Introduction: Why Preparation Matters in 30 Days

In Silicon Valley’s ultra-competitive real estate market, homes often sell within days — sometimes even hours — of being listed. Buyers are sophisticated, well-informed, and quick to act when they find the right property. This means that first impressions are everything.

But getting your home ready to shine doesn’t have to take months. With the right strategy, you can prepare your property in just 30 days and be ready to attract serious offers.

That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive checklist for getting your home ready to sell in 30 days. Designed for busy sellers who want maximum results, this week-by-week guide covers everything from decluttering and repairs to staging, pricing, and marketing.

At the Boyenga Team — known as the Property Nerds — we’ve helped countless Bay Area families sell their homes quickly and profitably. As Compass real estate leaders and Eichler home experts, Eric and Janelle Boyenga specialize in blending data-driven insights with creative marketing strategies. Our proven methods take the stress out of selling while ensuring you get the most value for your property.

Let’s dive into the plan.

Week 1: Declutter, Clean, and Organize

The first impression buyers have of your home often comes from photos online. That means clutter, mess, or personal items can instantly turn off potential buyers.

Step 1: Declutter Room by Room

• Living Room: Remove excess furniture, family photos, and knick-knacks. Create a clean, open flow.
• Kitchen: Clear counters of appliances. Organize cabinets and pantries — buyers open everything.
• Bedrooms: Store off-season clothing. Minimize decor so the rooms feel larger.
• Bathrooms: Clear vanities. Replace old towels with fresh, neutral sets.

Pro Tip: Rent a storage unit if needed. Buyers want to see space, not stuff.

Step 2: Deep Clean

Hire a professional cleaning service to:

• Steam clean carpets and rugs.
• Wash windows inside and out.
• Scrub tile, grout, and bathroom fixtures.
• Polish hardwood floors.

Step 3: Organize Closets and Storage

Buyers often equate clutter with a lack of storage. Neatly organized closets make your home feel bigger and more valuable.

Eichler Tip: If you’re selling an Eichler home, focus on decluttering atriums and glass walls so buyers see the signature indoor-outdoor flow.

Week 2: Repairs, Updates, and ROI Improvements

With clutter gone, it’s time to address cosmetic issues and make smart upgrades.

Step 1: Quick Repairs

• Fix leaky faucets.
• Replace burnt-out light bulbs.
• Repair squeaky doors and cabinets.
• Patch holes and touch up paint.

Step 2: Fresh Paint

A neutral palette makes homes feel new, bright, and move-in ready. Shades of white, beige, and soft gray appeal to the widest audience.

Step 3: ROI Renovations

Not all renovations pay off before selling. Focus on:

• Kitchens: New cabinet hardware, modern faucets, updated light fixtures.
• Bathrooms: Re-caulking tubs, new mirrors, and updated vanities.
• Curb Appeal: Landscaping, power washing, and repainting the front door.

Eichler Tip: Preserve original wood paneling when possible. Buyers value authenticity. Updating lighting and refreshing landscaping around the atrium can dramatically increase appeal.

Compass Concierge Advantage

Through Compass Concierge, the Boyenga Team helps front the cost of these improvements with no upfront fees. Sellers pay nothing until their home closes — making it easier to maximize value without added stress.

Week 3: Staging and Curb Appeal

Step 1: Professional Staging

Staged homes sell faster and for more money. Staging helps buyers imagine themselves in the space.

• Highlight open floor plans.
• Use modern, neutral furniture.
• Add fresh flowers and greenery.

Eichler Tip: Mid-century modern staging pieces resonate with Eichler buyers. Keep it sleek, minimal, and era-appropriate.

Step 2: Curb Appeal

• Mow lawns and trim hedges.
• Add seasonal flowers.
• Pressure wash driveways.
• Replace worn house numbers.

Step 3: Pre-Inspection (Optional)

A pre-inspection can reassure buyers and prevent surprises during escrow.

Week 4: Marketing, Photography, and Going Live

This final week is all about showcasing your home.

Step 1: Professional Photography

• Wide-angle shots of key rooms.
• Twilight exterior shots.
• Drone photography for larger lots.

Step 2: Compass Technology

With Compass Collections, buyers can “pin” your home in curated lists. Compass Insights gives you real-time data on who’s viewing your listing and how it’s performing.

Step 3: Virtual Tours

3D tours and video walkthroughs attract relocation buyers and busy professionals.

Step 4: Open House Prep

• Bake cookies or light candles.
• Remove pets.
• Keep all lights on.

Pricing Strategy and Market Insights

Even the most beautifully prepared home won’t sell if it’s overpriced.

The Boyenga Team Approach

• Data-Driven: We use Compass Valuation tools and local comps.
• Buyer Personas: We analyze who your buyer is likely to be and price strategically.
• Market Positioning: In competitive neighborhoods like Los Altos, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Saratoga, pricing is about finding the sweet spot that sparks multiple offers.

The Boyenga Advantage

Eric and Janelle Boyenga are not just Realtors — they are recognized Silicon Valley real estate leaders with a proven track record.

• Eichler Expertise: Known throughout the Bay Area as Eichler specialists, the Boyenga Team has represented countless sellers of mid-century modern homes.
• Compass Innovation: By leveraging Compass technology and Concierge services, they bring unmatched tools to their clients.
• Client-First Approach: Eric and Janelle are hands-on, guiding clients through every step of the selling process with honesty, strategy, and care.

When you partner with the Boyenga Team, you’re not just hiring Realtors — you’re gaining a strategic advantage in one of the nation’s toughest markets.

The 30-Day Checklist (Condensed)

Week 1: Declutter & Clean

• Declutter room by room
• Deep clean
• Organize closets and storage

Week 2: Repairs & Updates

• Quick fixes
• Fresh neutral paint
• ROI renovations (kitchen, bath, curb appeal)

Week 3: Staging & Curb Appeal

• Professional staging
• Boost curb appeal
• Optional pre-inspection

Week 4: Marketing & Go Live

• Professional photography
• Compass technology tools
• Virtual tours & open house prep

Selling your home in just 30 days is not only possible — it’s achievable when you have a clear plan and the right team by your side. From decluttering and staging to Compass technology and pricing expertise, every step builds toward a successful sale.

With Eric and Janelle Boyenga of the Boyenga Team at Compass, you gain trusted advisors who know Silicon Valley, specialize in Eichler homes, and consistently deliver results. Whether you’re preparing a Los Altos luxury home, a Mountain View condo, or a Palo Alto Eichler, their expertise ensures your home sells faster, smarter, and for top value.

Ready to sell? Connect with the Boyenga Team today and start your 30-day journey to a successful home sale.