Selling your home is part art, part science, and a whole lot of preparation. The goal? To make your property irresistible to buyers while maximizing your return. As the legendary real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran once said, "Buyers decide in the first eight seconds of seeing a home if they’re interested in buying it." First impressions count, and getting your house ready for sale means checking off every detail, big and small.
As Dean Jones, founder of Jamaica Homes and real estate agent at Coldwell Banker, puts it, "A house that’s properly prepped is a house that sells itself." In Jamaica, where buyers are looking for homes that fit the island lifestyle—whether it’s a Kingston townhouse, a Montego Bay villa, or a cozy St. Ann getaway—presentation is key. Here’s your ultimate checklist to make your home market-ready.
1. Declutter and Depersonalize
Remove personal photos, trophies, and memorabilia
Clear out excess furniture to make rooms look more spacious
Organize closets and storage areas (buyers will peek!)
Minimize countertop clutter in kitchens and bathrooms
Tidy up bookshelves and entertainment units
Donate, sell, or store items you don’t need
Declutter verandahs, garages, and backyard spaces—outdoor living is a big part of the Jamaican lifestyle
2. Deep Clean Everything
Hire professional cleaners if necessary
Scrub floors, baseboards, and walls
Wash windows inside and out for maximum light
Clean all light fixtures and ceiling fans
Dust vents, blinds, and hard-to-reach places
Remove any pet odors and clean pet areas thoroughly
Freshen up carpets, tiles, and upholstery
Ensure your house has a fresh, airy scent—nobody wants to buy a house that "smells stale like last week’s stew."
3. Enhance Curb Appeal
Power wash the exterior, driveway, and sidewalks
Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and weed flower beds
Plant fresh flowers or add potted plants (hibiscus and bougainvillea add a tropical touch!)
Repaint the front door and replace worn-out hardware
Clean or replace the welcome mat—make buyers feel the Jamaican warmth from the moment they step in
Ensure outdoor lighting is functional and inviting
4. Make Necessary Repairs
Fix leaky faucets and running toilets
Patch holes and cracks in walls and ceilings
Replace burned-out light bulbs
Repair squeaky doors and loose doorknobs
Check that all appliances are working properly
Replace damaged tiles or flooring
Address any signs of mold, water damage, or pest infestations—termites and ants can be a deal-breaker
5. Refresh Your Interior
Repaint walls in neutral, buyer-friendly colors
Replace outdated cabinet hardware
Upgrade outdated fixtures (light switches, doorknobs, handles)
Rearrange furniture to maximize space and flow
Let in as much natural light as possible—Jamaican homes shine best with bright, open spaces
6. Set the Stage for Showings
Add fresh flowers or houseplants for warmth
Set the dining table elegantly but simply
Light candles or use subtle air fresheners (but avoid overpowering scents)
Play soft, ambient music during showings
Remove pet beds, toys, and food bowls before showings
Adjust the thermostat for a comfortable temperature—keep it cool if the day is hot
7. Create a Welcoming Exterior
Paint or touch up exterior walls if needed
Clean or stain the deck and porch
Replace or repair any broken fences
Make sure house numbers are clearly visible
Upgrade the mailbox if outdated
Ensure the yard is well-maintained—whether it’s a Kingston townhouse or a country home, buyers love a neat, tropical outdoor space
8. Highlight Your Home’s Best Features
Showcase natural lighting with open blinds or sheer curtains
Highlight special features like verandahs, patios, or ocean/mountain views
Use mirrors to create an illusion of space
If your home has a water tank, solar panels, or energy-efficient features, highlight them—buyers appreciate practical investments in Jamaica
9. Make Minor Upgrades for Maximum Impact
Replace outdated faucets and cabinet handles
Upgrade light fixtures for a modern touch
Swap out old switch plates for fresh, clean ones
Install a new shower curtain and fresh towels in bathrooms
If your home has wooden shutters or lattice work, make sure they’re freshly painted and in good shape
10. Get a Pre-Listing Inspection
Identify potential red flags before buyers do
Address small repairs to prevent them from becoming deal-breakers
Have receipts and documentation ready for recent upgrades and repairs
Conclusion
Selling your home isn’t just about putting it on the market—it’s about making it as appealing as possible to buyers. As Warren Buffett wisely said, "Price is what you pay. Value is what you get." In Jamaica, where homeownership is a major milestone, buyers want a property that feels like home from the first viewing.
And remember, as Dean Jones says, "A well-prepared home sells faster, for more, and with fewer headaches. Preparation is the key to success in real estate." Or as we say in Jamaica, "If yuh wah good, yuh nose haffi run." Put in the effort now, and your house will sell quicker than patties at lunchtime!
Thinking about selling your home? Contact Dean Jones, founder of Jamaica Homes and real estate agent at Coldwell Banker, for expert guidance on getting top dollar for your property.