Prepare to Sell

Preparing Your Investment Property for Sale

Creating strong first impressions matters—but in the commercial world, presentation goes beyond cosmetics. It’s about how well your property performs on paper and in person.

The goal is to minimize buyer uncertainty, highlight the asset’s stability or upside, and reduce any friction that could lead to price renegotiation or delays.

Here’s how to prepare your investment property to maximize market appeal and value:

1. Operational Curb Appeal

While investors aren’t buying based on emotion, the physical condition of the asset still sets the tone for showings and buyer confidence.

• Address deferred maintenance on exteriors, roofs, signage, parking lots, fences, and common areas

• Touch up landscaping and lighting—particularly for retail, mobile home parks, and multifamily

• Remove visible clutter, old vehicles, or unused equipment

• Ensure tenants comply with lease terms regarding upkeep of their spaces

A clean, well-maintained appearance signals to buyers that the property is professionally operated and cared for—reducing perceived risk.

2. Financial & Operational Documentation

Sophisticated buyers will need to see a clear picture of how your asset is performing. Gathering this in advance helps prevent delays or lowball offers.

Prepare the following:

• Trailing 12-month profit & loss statement (T-12)

• Current rent roll with lease terms, deposits, expiration dates

• Copies of leases (commercial or residential)

• Utility bills, property tax records, insurance premiums

• Capital expenditures and maintenance logs

• Any existing service contracts (landscaping, waste removal, etc.)

We’ll help you organize this into a professional offering package that builds credibility and helps buyers underwrite quickly.

3. Property Condition & Inspections

Depending on asset type, it may be wise to order inspections before listing, such as:

• Property condition report (PCR)

• Phase I environmental assessment (for commercial/industrial or land)

• Roof, HVAC, electrical, plumbing evaluations

• Pest or termite inspections (especially for older multifamily stock)

Knowing these items in advance lets you either address them, price accordingly, or disclose transparently—removing leverage from the buyer during negotiations.

4. Compliance & Documentation

Make sure your property is clear of issues that could slow down or kill a deal:

• Permits: Confirm any upgrades were done with proper permitting

• Zoning: Ensure your use complies with local zoning regulations

• Violations: Resolve any outstanding code enforcement issues

• Licensing: If applicable (e.g. MHP), confirm park licenses or registrations are current

We’ll also assist in reviewing what disclosures are required and ensure you’re protected legally throughout the transaction.

5. Show-Ready Logistics

Investors want to see a realistic snapshot of operations, not a staged experience. That said, here’s how to ensure smooth showings:

• Let tenants know showings may occur, with proper notice

• Provide access to key areas: mechanical rooms, units, basements, etc.

• Avoid being on-site during showings—buyers ask more honest questions when the owner isn’t present

• If vacancies exist, keep them clean and accessible for tours

We’ll handle all scheduling and property tours on your behalf, presenting the asset in its best operational light to serious buyers only.

Set the Stage for a Strong Sale

With the right preparation, your investment property will not only attract better offers—but move through due diligence and closing with fewer surprises and less negotiation.

As a commercial advisor with a strong track record in the Washington market, I’ll guide you through each step—maximizing your asset’s value, reducing friction, and helping you sell with confidence.