Selling

My 12 Part Checklist for Selling Your Home and Moving at the Same Time

By Todd Kornack September 30, 2026

Cardboard moving boxes and a brass house key in a sunlit home mid-move, with packing paper and a rolled floor plan nearby

Selling your home while you plan your next move is a lot to juggle. I have done it myself more than once, and I have helped a lot of families across Central Kentucky and Southern Indiana do it too. The good news is that it gets much easier when you break it into steps. This is the same checklist I put in my free Smooth Moves guide. Print it, stick it on the fridge and check things off as you go.

1. Get started early

Call me to talk through timing and a pricing strategy.
Schedule a walkthrough before we list so we can spot any updates or repairs.
Gather the important paperwork: utility bills, warranties, HOA documents and a list of recent upgrades.
Decide on your ideal move out date and closing timeline.

2. Declutter and organize

Start packing anything you will not need for a month or two.
Sort everything into four piles: keep, donate, sell or discard.
Take out extra furniture so rooms feel bigger.
Organize closets, cabinets and storage spaces. Buyers open them.
Rent a small storage unit if you need one. Less clutter means more appeal.

3. Deep clean

Wash the windows inside and out.
Wipe down baseboards, ceiling fans and light fixtures.
Shampoo carpets and clean the hardwood floors.
Get rid of odors so the house smells fresh.
Clean out the garage, attic and basement.

4. Make small repairs

Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors and loose hardware.
Replace burnt out bulbs and use bright, warm lighting.
Touch up paint and patch holes in the walls.
Repair torn screens and worn weatherstripping.

5. Boost your curb appeal

Mow, edge and trim the yard.
Add fresh mulch or potted flowers by the front door.
Power wash the siding, deck and driveway.
Clean or repaint the front door and put down a new welcome mat.
Make sure your house numbers and porch lights are clean and easy to see.

6. Stage your home

Open the blinds and curtains to let in natural light.
Use neutral decor and put away personal photos.
Clear off counters and other surfaces.
Add simple touches like fresh towels or flowers.
Make every room feel open, bright and welcoming.

7. Get ready for photos and showings

Schedule professional photos after you clean and stage.
Keep cords, pet items and toiletries out of sight.
Tidy up a little every day so you are always ready for a showing.
Set comfortable lighting and temperature before each showing.

8. Showings and offers

Coordinate showing times with me so they fit your schedule.
Take pets with you or keep them secured during showings.
When offers come in, we will review every one carefully together and respond quickly.

9. Plan your move

Pack the things you use least first.
Label every box with what is inside and the room it goes to.
Protect fragile items with towels or bubble wrap.
Pack a "first night" box with toiletries, a few changes of clothes, important documents, snacks and phone chargers.
Book your movers early and confirm the date.
Keep valuables and paperwork with you, not on the truck.

10. Moving day

Confirm your movers' arrival time and route.
Double check the moving contract, insurance and booked time.
Pick one person to be the main contact for the movers.
Take photos of the empty rooms if you need them.

11. Final prep before closing

Do a final deep clean once the furniture is out.
Remove all personal belongings and trash.
Leave manuals, warranties and spare keys for the buyers.
Confirm your utility transfers or cancellations.
Check every room, drawer and closet one last time.

12. Keep perspective

Expect a few ups and downs. Every transaction has them.
Stay flexible and keep talking with me.
Keep your important dates, contacts and notes in one place.
Remember that preparation pays off with a smoother move and stronger offers.

Want the full guide?

This checklist is the last chapter of my free Smooth Moves guide. The rest of the guide covers decluttering, curb appeal, staging while you still live there and a moving timeline that lines up with showings. Get the free guide here .

I have been part of 50+ transactions, and if your next home is out of state, my nationwide referral network can connect you with a great agent there too.

Thinking about selling in Central Kentucky or Southern Indiana? DM me or call/text 502-232-1915 . I'm here to help.

Todd Kornack | TK Realty Group at Schuler Bauer | KY #271180 / IN #RB22002416