When you're ready to put your house up for sale, the last thing you want is for the selling process to drag out for months on end, especially if you're in a hurry to move. But you don't need to sit back and wait for something to happen. You can get to work and expedite your home sale.

Hire a Professional Stager

These days, most buyers start home hunting by browsing pictures on home sales apps. If your house looks cluttered, unclean, and outdated, they're going to scroll on by. The impact is greater on prospective buyers who tour your home in person.

A professional home stager can advise you about changes you can make to increase the visual appeal of your home. A stager may declutter, rearrange furniture, and remove or add accessories to modernize your décor. A house that makes a good impression may sell faster.

Sell to an Investor

If you need to sell your house immediately, think about selling your home to an investor. This can be the best option if you don't have the money to fix up your house for showings. Selling to an investor lets you bypass repairs to the property.

An investor will buy your home "as is," and you won't have to make repairs or spruce up the appearance. Most companies will make an offer on your home within 24 hours, and you can often close within a week or two. There are no commissions or fees to pay.

Work on Curb Appeal

That "For Sale" sign in your front yard isn't going to attract anyone if your home looks worn out and your landscaping is overgrown. Curb appeal is about more than appearances: it tells prospective buyers that you have cared for the home carefully, both inside and out.

Small touches can improve curb appeal greatly. Use an edger and weed trimmer and clean out extra brush. Paint your front door and add inexpensive solar lighting along the front of your house. Also, clean the exterior, sidewalk, and driveway by power washing them.

You can improve your chances of selling your home quickly if you understand what buyers are looking for and how first impressions can influence them. A small investment of time and money can make a difference. And, you always have the option of selling your home to an investor for cash.

Check out this article on what to change if your home isn’t selling!