“We had some initial concerns as we needed to sell our home while living out of state. We’d been in communication with Michelle for a couple years until market conditions were…”
C. L.Seller living out of state · via Google
Preparing to sell
Fix it, update it, or leave it alone?
My construction, renovation and staging background helps you spend money where buyers will notice it, and skip the projects that won’t pay you back.
A builder’s eye
Spend where it counts
Before I was a Realtor, I worked around construction, renovation and design. So when I walk through your house, I see it the way a buyer, an inspector and a contractor would. That means I can tell you which projects are worth doing before you list, which ones a buyer will expect a credit for, and which ones simply don’t matter.
The goal isn’t a perfect house. It’s a home that looks its best, is ready for inspections, and makes a great impression on buyers.
- A room-by-room prep list, ranked by impact
- Honest advice on what to skip
- Contractors, painters and handymen I trust
- A timeline that fits your move
Fix, update or leave alone
How I sort the to-do list
Fix
Things a buyer’s inspector will flag: leaks, failing caulk, broken windows, odd electrical, tired roofing. Fixing them first avoids surprises and renegotiation.
Update
Low-cost changes buyers notice: fresh neutral paint, new light fixtures and hardware, refinished floors and a tidy front entry.
Leave alone
Big remodels rarely pay for themselves right before a sale, and many buyers want to choose their own finishes. I’ll tell you when to stop.
How it works
From walk-through to market-ready
- 01
Walk-through
We tour your home inside and out and talk about your timing and budget.
- 02
The plan
You get a ranked list: must-do repairs, worthwhile updates and what to leave alone.
- 03
The right people
I’ll connect you with painters, handymen, cleaners and contractors I trust. You choose who to hire.
- 04
Finishing touches
Staging, decluttering and a final check before photos.
Compass Concierge
Updates now, pay at closing
If a few updates would make a real difference but you’d rather not pay for them upfront, Compass Concierge can cover the cost of services like painting, flooring, repairs and staging. You repay it when your home sells.
I’ll help you decide whether it makes sense for your home. Learn about Compass Concierge.
Client reviews
In my clients’ words
“Michelle worked with us for over a year, getting our house ready for sale in May of 2019. She was responsive in communications, prepared for all of our meetings and meticulous in…”
Charlotte and ShaneSeller · via Compass
“Michelle was amazing! We are so grateful we found her. She was with us every step of the way. Not only did she sell our house for over asking price but she helped us with so many…”
Burke homeownerSeller · via Zillow
“Michelle was our agent for both the rental and sale of our condo in Springfield. Her deep knowledge of the local market helped us so we only had it on the market for a brief…”
Natasha P.Landlord and seller · via Compass
“Working with Michelle Gordon from Compass Real Estate was an outstanding experience from start to finish.”
Lisa D.Seller · via Google
“Michelle Gordon is the consummate full time real estate professional. I have been a licensed Realtor in Colorado for 27 years and Michelle listed and sold my brother’s home in…”
Roger H.Seller’s brother · via Zillow
“Michelle sold my house in Dec 2020. She was awesome, two thumbs up without a doubt. Very knowledgeable about making the house look good without breaking the bank.”
Jenny F.Seller · via Google
“Michelle was fantastic throughout the entire process. Extremely personable and low-pressure, which was well-suited to my particular situation.”
Marc S.Seller · via Zillow
“Michelle is an excellent agent! She listed my place in March and we were under contract in less than 2 days, at $75K over asking price!”
Kevin W.Seller · via Google
“My husband and I cannot recommend Michelle highly enough. She is a true professional and extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of real estate transactions.”
AshleyBuyer and seller · via Compass
“We have been working with Michelle for 7 years! In fact we were one of her first clients. Through the years Michelle has assisted us with renting a home, buying our first home…”
Christina B.Renter, buyer and seller · via Google
“I researched real estate professionals online and found Michelle. She created a marketing plan to sell my townhouse and reviewed this plan with me.”
Springfield homeownerTownhouse seller · via Zillow
“I can’t say enough about Michelle Gordon. She is outstanding and is on top of her game! She helped me buy and sell my condo.”
Andrea L.Condo buyer and seller · via Google
“My husband and I recently sold our home with Michelle. We had considered selling it ourselves, and are extremely glad we reconsidered.”
Jen W.Seller · via Google
“Michelle Gordon and Janice Buckley have been exceptionally attentive through the whole process. Helped us with organizing and transporting to Quinn’s.”
Christopher F.Seller, after moving away · via Google
Questions
Prep Questions
Is it worth remodeling my kitchen before I sell?
Rarely. A full kitchen remodel almost never returns its cost at sale, and many buyers want to choose their own. Painting cabinets, new hardware, lighting and a deep clean often give you most of the benefit for a fraction of the price.
Which updates give the best return?
Fresh neutral paint, updated light fixtures, refinished or cleaned floors, a tidy front entry and repairs to anything that looks neglected. These are the things buyers see first, in photos and in person.
Should I fix items before the inspection or offer a credit?
It depends on the item. Safety issues and obvious problems are often better fixed ahead of time, so they don’t become a bargaining chip. For larger items, a credit can make more sense. I’ll help you decide case by case.
Can you recommend contractors?
Yes. Through my construction background I know painters, handymen and contractors who do good work. I’ll share names, and you choose who to hire.
Let’s talk
Want a second opinion on your to-do list?
I’m happy to walk through your home and tell you what I’d do, with no obligation. Or call or text me at 703-489-1627.
Show it at its best
Staging help from a certified stager, using the furniture you already have.
Staging