Prep and staging
How much work does it need?
- Move-in ready
- Some projects
- A lot
The 10 fixes that pay
- Paint anything not white, off-white, or greige.
- Replace dated light fixtures.
- Deep clean, including windows.
- Fix every dripping faucet and running toilet.
- Re-caulk tubs and showers.
- Mulch, trim, and a new doormat.
- Replace stained carpet or have it cleaned.
- New cabinet hardware.
- Declutter to half of what's there.
- Remove personal photos.
Cost: $2,000–$8,000 typical. Return: buyers pay for “nothing to do.”
You did the work. Keep the commission.
MLS listing, disclosures, contracts, deadlines and a transaction coordinator — handled by a licensed California agent for a flat fee. $0 up front, and nothing owed if your home doesn't sell.
Send me my numbersBased on a $1M San Diego home where the seller offers 3% to the buyer's agent. Applied to closing costs first. How much can go to you beyond that depends on your loan. Estimate only, not a guarantee.
What not to renovate
Don't remodel the kitchen or bath to sell. You'll spend $40K to get $25K back and lose two months. Don't add a room without a permit. Don't replace the roof unless it's leaking; disclose its age instead. Buyers want to choose their own finishes. Give them clean, bright, and working.
You prepped it. You can show it. $999.
Your listing goes on the MLS and syndicates to Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com and 15+ other sites. Disclosures, contracts and deadlines are handled. You show your own home, which is the part most sellers can genuinely do.
See what's includedBased on a $1M San Diego home where the seller offers 3% to the buyer's agent. Applied to closing costs first. How much can go to you beyond that depends on your loan. Estimate only, not a guarantee.
2 more screens in this lesson, plus the tool at the end. Both come with a plan.
See the plans