How should I prioritize home improvements before putting my house on market?

Prioritize home improvements with the biggest buyer impact and lowest risk first. Cosmetic updates like fresh paint, lighting upgrades, and decluttering boost initial impressions. Address visible issues that affect photos and open-house appeal, leaving complex or structural work to professionals. Plan projects that complete in under forty hours to avoid sale delays. Focus on move-in ready presentation because buyers value a clean, bright home over extensive renovations when deciding what to pay.