8 Things You Should Remove From Your Home Before Selling

Getting your home ready to sell? Removing certain personal and distracting items can significantly boost buyer interest and speed up your sale. From family photos to pet accessories, each object you take away helps buyers picture their own future in the space. Here are 8 key things to remove before listing your home.

Make Your Home Buyer-Ready in 8 Steps

When it comes to selling a home, first impressions matter. Buyers often decide whether a property feels right within minutes of walking through the door. That’s why decluttering is more than just tidying up — it’s a strategic move to make your home appear more spacious, neutral, and inviting. By removing personal, distracting, or controversial items, you allow potential buyers to focus on the features of your home, not the items inside it. Let’s explore eight things you should always remove before putting your home on the market.

1. Personal Photographs and Family Memorabilia

While your wedding pictures and family vacation shots make your house feel like a home, they can actually work against you when it’s time to sell. Buyers need to envision themselves living in the space — not feel like they’re visiting someone else’s private life. Personal items such as framed photos, awards, trophies, and children’s artwork can break the illusion of a “blank slate.” Replacing them with neutral artwork or leaving walls clean can help buyers emotionally connect with the home as their own.

2. Pet Items and Signs of Animals

Many homeowners treat pets as part of the family, but not every buyer is a dog or cat lover. In fact, some people may have allergies, concerns about odors, or worries about pet-related damage. That’s why it’s important to remove pet beds, litter boxes, feeding bowls, toys, and any lingering smells. During showings, it’s best to have pets temporarily out of the house — and to repair any scratched doors or chewed baseboards. You want buyers focused on your beautiful floors and layout, not imagining how to deal with pet hair.

3. Strong Odors and Air Fresheners

Your home’s scent plays a huge role in first impressions. Lingering smells from cooking, pets, smoke, or even heavily perfumed air fresheners can be off-putting to buyers. Instead of masking odors, eliminate their source. Clean carpets, curtains, and upholstery; air out rooms; and use mild, neutral scents if any. A subtle fragrance like citrus or freshly baked bread can add warmth without overwhelming the senses.

4. Religious or Political Items

We all have beliefs and values, but during a home sale, it’s best to keep those private. Religious symbols, political campaign materials, and even certain books can alienate or distract potential buyers. Remember, you’re trying to appeal to the widest audience possible. A neutral, minimalist environment ensures that the only thing buyers judge is the home — not your worldview.

5. Security Systems and Signs

This one might surprise some sellers. While it may seem helpful to highlight a security system, overt signs like “This home is protected by…” stickers or visible camera equipment can unintentionally raise red flags. Buyers might assume the neighborhood is unsafe or worry about being monitored. Instead, mention security features in the listing description or show them upon request — but don’t make them the focal point during a showing.

6. Excess Furniture and Bulky Items

Overcrowded rooms feel smaller. Removing oversized or extra furniture opens up your floor plan and helps buyers visualize movement through the home. Consider renting a storage unit for large armchairs, second coffee tables, or unused bookshelves. Keep only essential, well-proportioned furniture that highlights the room’s purpose without overwhelming it.

7. Cluttered Closets and Overstuffed Cabinets

Storage space is one of the most important things buyers look for — so make sure yours shines. Overfilled closets and cabinets signal a lack of storage, even if your home has plenty. Aim to clear out 50% of the contents, folding clothes neatly and organizing shelves with intention. The same goes for kitchen pantries and bathroom cabinets: remove expired items, half-used toiletries, and anything too personal.

8. Collections and Unique Décor

Your collection of vintage clocks or Star Wars memorabilia may be your pride and joy, but for buyers, it can be overwhelming. Too much visual noise can make it hard to appreciate the room’s true size and features. Pack away collectibles, niche artwork, and bold design elements that reflect a strong personal taste. Opt for neutral tones and simple décor to create a calming, universally appealing aesthetic.

Conclusion

Selling a home is all about creating a space that feels welcoming, spacious, and neutral. By removing these eight types of items, you give potential buyers the freedom to imagine their own life in your home. A clean, depersonalized space not only photographs better but also feels more open and move-in ready. Small changes like these can make a big difference in how quickly and successfully your home sells.

Jack C Bharat

Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) Certified with NYC

122-15 111th Avenue, S Ozone Park, NY 11420

Email: jackcbharat@gmail.com

Phone: (718) 805-6982

Jack C Bharat has been in the Real Estate Business since 2003. As a Realtor & Developer, his experience in buying dated, distress or fixer upper and renovated them back for resale can help both buyers and sellers in their transactions. Graduated in 1999 from Queens College (CUNY) Flushing, with a Bachelors of Arts Degree and in 2012 from LaGuardia College with Goldman Sachs 10K Small Business Certificate Of Entrepreneurship, Mr Bharat is always educating himself to stay current and sometimes ahead of Real Estate Market Trends. He is currently a Notary Public in the State of NY as well.
Mr Bharat has completed real estate projects in New York-Queens & Long Island, Florida-Ocala & Coral Springs & recently (Nov 2023) 8 Units Apt in Providence, Guyana. His passion for creating projects that blend functional modern architectural design in harmony with the natural environment are evident in his most recent commercial project in Providence Guyana, currently under initial phase of construction. Mr Bharat also is the CEO of Liberty Office Supplies & Equipment, Inc. A Certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) with New York City & New York State. Established in May 1999, Liberty provides a wide range of office supplies and work as a sourcing company for the Federal Government by being a GSA schedule holder.
Jack is Licensed as a Real Estate Broker in State of New York and in the State of Florida. He has knowledge in both residential and commercial sales. His motto “Working with Clients to achieve their real estate goals” is what drive him to be on top of his game. He is very involved in his community especially with social and educational issues. He is the proud sponsor of a local Cricket Team, Boxing and donates his time and money to various organizations that work with children, abuse victims and the elderly. He is cited by NYC Mayor’s Office, NYS Assembly and NYC Council for his leadership role in his community.
Mr Bharat has three daughters: Alicia who graduated with her Masters Of Science in Education from Queens College and is now a STEM Teacher with the NYC Dept of Education, Kayla who has recently (2024) graduated from CUNY School for Public Health with her Masters of Public Health in Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences & works as an Environmetal Health & Safety Specialist with Sloan Kettering Cancer Ctr. and Jessica who is currently enrolled as a senior at Queens College pursing her goal as a Dentist.