Preparing a luxury home for sale: a practical checklist

The best-prepared homes do not feel staged. They feel cared for. A few weeks of preparation usually pays for itself in fewer price discussions later.

Before photography

• Repair small things buyers notice: sticking doors, stained grout, tired paint.
• Service the pool, AC and generator and keep the records.
• Edit furniture so each room has one clear purpose.

Documents to gather

Permits for past renovations, surveys, insurance history, wind-mitigation and elevation documents, and association information if applicable. Buyers’ advisors will ask for them; having them ready shortens due diligence.

Privacy

Decide early how public you want the sale to be. Some sellers prefer a quiet, invitation-only approach before (or instead of) a public launch.