Getting your house ready to sell does not need to be overwhelming. With a clear plan and a few focused weekends, you can list with confidence and attract the right buyers. This guide walks you through what matters most in Ottawa, from curb appeal in four seasons to showings and photo day. We kept it practical, affordable, and tailored to local expectations.

Why prep matters in Ottawa
Homes that feel clean, bright, and move-in ready tend to sell faster and with stronger offers. Ottawa buyers notice the basics first. Light. Smell. Space to move. A tidy entry. Clear countertops. Fresh paint where it counts. You do not need a full renovation to make a big impact. You need a plan and consistency.

Your two-week countdown

Day 14 to 10
• Book your photographer, videographer, and measurements. We handle professional photography, videography, and additional marketing for every listing, so this is covered when you work with us.
• Schedule handyman help for quick fixes. Think caulking, loose handles, wobbly toilets, and squeaky doors.
• Order touch-up paint. Choose one neutral that matches your trim and main walls.
• Gather supplies. Magic erasers, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, grout brush, wood polish, new furnace filter, and fresh silicone if needed.

Day 9 to 6
• Declutter surfaces and storage. Clear kitchen and bathroom counters to one or two items max. Pack seasonal gear. Ottawa garages and basements can swallow clutter. Use bins and label.
• Donate what you do not need. Box up duplicates, decor you have outgrown, and small appliances you never use.
• Start minor fixes. Patch nail holes, tighten hinges, replace burnt-out bulbs, and test all outlets and GFCIs.

Day 5 to 3
• Deep clean. Baseboards, window tracks, vents, and light fixtures. Degrease the kitchen. Polish stainless steel until streak-free. Buyers notice streaks on fridges and ovens.
• Refresh grout and silicone. A new bead around tubs and showers makes bathrooms look newer.
• Carpets and rugs. Spot clean or book a professional.
• Curb appeal tune-up. In spring and summer, edge the lawn, trim hedges, add fresh mulch, and clean the front door. In fall, rake and sweep. In winter, clear snow and ice and lay grit for walkways.

Day 2 to 1
• Style each space with purpose. Living room gets a simple coffee table setup. Bedrooms get made hotel-style with layered pillows. Bathrooms get fresh white towels and one plant or candle.
• Hide personal items. Photos, diplomas, collections. Keep it neutral so buyers can imagine themselves here.
• Pet plan. Arrange daycare or a friend for showings and photo day. Remove litter and pet odours.
• Air quality. Replace filters and open windows briefly to air out. Skip strong scents.

Room-by-room essentials
Entry
• Clear shoes and coats to a minimum. Add a sturdy mat for Ottawa's slush seasons.
• Touch up paint around trim and stair rails.

Kitchen
• Scrub sink and faucet until they shine.
• Remove fridge magnets and schedules.
• Limit counters to a coffee setup or a bowl of fruit and one attractive appliance.
• If cabinets are sticky, a degreaser and new hardware can work wonders.

Bathrooms
• New shower liner. Fresh white towels. Minimal toiletries.
• Re-silicone or re-grout where needed.
• Replace worn toilet seats and check for running water sounds.

Living and dining
• Reduce furniture to improve flow.
• Centre rugs under furniture.
• Replace heavy drapes with lighter panels to maximize daylight.

Bedrooms
• Neutral bedding. Matching lamps. Clear nightstands.
• Closets at least half empty to signal ample storage.

Basement and utility
• Brighten with higher lumen bulbs.
• Tidy storage shelves.
• Label mechanicals and leave recent service records where visible.

Exterior
• Power wash siding and walkways if weather allows.
• Paint or polish the front door hardware.
• Replace tired house numbers and mailbox for a quick lift.

Ottawa season-specific tips
Winter
• Keep driveways, stairs, and decks fully cleared and salted. Safety and ease matter to buyers and inspectors.
• Add warm lighting and throws to counter grey days.

Spring
• Tackle winter salt stains at the entry.
• Clean windows inside and out for maximum light.

Summer
• Maintain lawn edges and water planters consistently.
• Keep the house cool and ventilated during showings.

Fall
• Clear leaves from gutters and walkways.
• Stage the porch with seasonal planters and a clean doormat.

Photo and video day checklist
• Open all blinds and turn on every light. Replace any bulbs that do not match in colour.
• Hide bins, pet bowls, extra cords, and garbage cans.
• Park cars off the driveway if possible.
• Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Buyers linger longer when they feel comfortable.

Daily showing routine
• Ten-minute reset. Beds made, towels hung neatly, counters wiped, toilet lids down, a quick vacuum of visible areas.
• Lights on and blinds open.
• Take pets out and remove bins.
• Leave a simple feature sheet on the kitchen counter and a small note with any special instructions for visitors.

Small upgrades with big returns
• Lighting. Swap yellowed bulbs for bright, consistent LEDs.
• Hardware. Matching door handles and cabinet pulls create a cohesive look.
• Paint. One weekend and a neutral palette can transform a space.
• Smart storage. Simple shelving in closets and the basement shows buyers the home is easy to live in.

Health and safety signals buyers notice
• Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every floor.
• Clean furnace filter and a recent service tag visible on the unit.
• GFCI outlets near water sources.
• Clear paths and secure railings for all stairs.

What we handle for you
Every New Purveyors listing includes professional photography, videography, and additional marketing that covers print and social. We advise on the prep plan, coordinate trusted vendors, and make sure your home shows its best online and in person. If you need help with cleaning, handyman work, or lawn and snow services, we can introduce you to reliable local pros.

Ready to sell
When you are prepared, buyers feel it. The home looks brighter. Rooms feel larger. Showings go smoother. Offers come in stronger. If you would like a simple printable checklist version of this guide or a custom prep plan for your timeline, reach out. We are here to make the process clear and stress-free.