Whether you are buying or selling a home, there are important first steps that one must take in order to get off on the right foot.  For homebuyers, getting pre-approved for a loan will speed up and simplify the entire process from start to finish.  By knowing how much you can borrow, you can effectively narrow down your list of potential properties, strengthen your offer, and improve your chances of quickly accepting your offer. Making your property presentable is priority number one for those selling their home. Start with a good cleaning and decluttering, followed by minor repairs and a good coat of neutral-colored paint.