Spring is a vibrant season in Portland, Oregon, bringing not only blooming flowers but also a flourishing real estate market. Guiding your clients to make their homes stand out during this competitive time is crucial. Here are four updated tips to help sell a Portland home this spring:

1. Deep clean and declutter

A spotless home creates a positive first impression. Encourage your clients to undertake a thorough spring cleaning, focusing on:

  • Floors: Professionally clean carpets to remove stains and refresh fibers. For hardwood floors, consider refinishing to restore their original luster.
  • Kitchens and Bathrooms: These areas receive the most scrutiny. Ensure countertops, backsplashes, and appliances are immaculate. Re-caulk tubs, showers, and sinks, and polish all fixtures.
  • Odor Control: Advise homeowners to avoid cooking foods with strong odors before showings. Removing pet items and using subtle, high-quality air fresheners can maintain a pleasant atmosphere.

Remember, cleanliness should be prioritized before listing photos are taken, as 98% of buyers browse online listings first.

2. Address necessary repairs

Unattended repairs can deter potential buyers. Assist your clients in identifying and fixing issues such as:

  • Minor Repairs: Fix cracked tiles, patch holes in walls, ensure drawers and doors operate smoothly, replace burnt-out light bulbs, and repair leaky faucets.
  • Major Repairs: Consider addressing structural issues before listing, as a clean inspection report can expedite the selling process.

Consulting with a real estate professional can help determine which repairs are essential.

3. Make strategic upgrades

Investments in certain home features can yield higher returns. According to recent research, mentioning specific upgrades in listings can increase sale prices:

  • Kitchen and Bathroom Features: Highlighting soapstone countertops, wet rooms, white-oak flooring, and teak finishes can make the property more appealing.
  • Outdoor Amenities: Features like outdoor showers can also add value.

Encourage homeowners to focus on these upgrades to attract discerning buyers.

4. Enhance curb appeal

The exterior sets the tone for the entire home. To boost curb appeal:

  • Landscaping: Maintain a well-manicured lawn, trim overgrown shrubs, and plant vibrant flowers to create an inviting entrance.
  • Exterior Maintenance: Clean windows, power-wash siding and walkways, and ensure the front door is in excellent condition.

Research indicates that sophisticated landscaping significantly increases a home’s value!

Bonus! Effectively time the sale

Listing a home during peak times can lead to quicker sales and higher prices. Recent studies suggest:

  • Optimal Listing Period: The week of April 13-19 has been identified as the best time to sell, with homes listed during this period typically achieving higher prices and receiving more views.

Advising clients to prepare their homes for this timeframe can be advantageous.

Maximize your sale with the right preparation

Selling a home in Portland’s spring market requires meticulous preparation and strategic enhancements. By focusing on cleanliness, necessary repairs, targeted upgrades, and curb appeal, real estate agents can position their clients’ homes to attract serious buyers.

For more real estate tips and professional photography services to showcase listings effectively, consider partnering with Virtuance for all your visual marketing needs.

Original guest post written by Jean Summers on 03/15/2022 | LawnStarter 

Jean Summers owns a flower shop and sprinkler company. She’s as handy with power tools as she is a pen. She writes how-to manuals in her spare time, hoping to teach women how to install and repair their own irrigation systems.

LawnStarter brings you the best lawn services, all at the click of a button. Within seconds, you can book skilled landscapers who have years of experience dealing with grass, weeds, pests, flowerbeds and anything else in your yard.

Optimized by Virtuance 03/14/2025

FAQ

Focus on deep cleaning, minor repairs, curb appeal, and small but impactful upgrades like new fixtures and fresh paint.

Ensure your home is spotless, decluttered, well-lit, and staged to highlight its best features.

Clean windows, mow the lawn, add fresh mulch, and plant colorful flowers to create a welcoming first impression.

High-quality images attract more buyers online, leading to more views, faster sales, and potentially higher offers.

Check out Virtuance for all your real estate photography and visual marketing needs!