Planning to Sell Your House in 2025? Start Preparing Today!

Thinking about selling your house in 2025? Well, believe it or not, now is the perfect time to start prepping! It may seem like there’s plenty of time left, but getting a jump on updates and repairs can make all the difference. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, puts it:

“Now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list. We have survey data that says 47 percent of sellers take longer than a month to get their home ready, so starting early means more flexibility.”

By beginning your preparations now, you’ll set yourself up for success and ensure your home is market-ready by the end of the year. But don’t forget: teaming up with a great real estate agent can provide you with invaluable insights about what updates will truly pay off in your local market.

Why Early Preparation Matters

When it comes to selling your home quickly and at the best price, presentation is key. You want your home to look its absolute best, and that means addressing repairs, decluttering, and even making value-adding updates.

Starting your preparations early allows you to take on tasks one at a time. Whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet, refreshing the landscaping, or painting a room, a gradual approach minimizes stress and ensures you do the job right. If you wait too long, your to-do list can become overwhelming, and you risk cutting corners. As Realtor.com cautions:

“There are some important repairs to make before selling a house. If you move too fast, buyers will see through the fact that you skipped necessary renovations, which might end up costing you time and money.”

What Should You Focus On First?

Feeling ready to tackle that to-do list but unsure where to begin? Here are some common improvements that many sellers are making today:

• Curb Appeal: First impressions matter! Simple updates like landscaping, painting the front door, or cleaning up the yard can make a significant difference.
• Interior Touch-ups: Fresh paint can brighten up your space and make it feel new. Consider neutral colors that appeal to a wider audience.
• Minor Repairs: Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or cracked tiles. Small repairs can have a big impact on how buyers perceive your home.
• Kitchen Updates: If your local market values updated kitchens, focus on minor upgrades like new hardware, a backsplash, or fresh paint on cabinets.
• Bathroom Improvements: Replacing fixtures or re-grouting tiles can give your bathrooms a fresh look without breaking the bank.

The Importance of Working with a Local Real Estate Agent

While these tips provide a great starting point, remember that local trends can vary. What buyers in your area want may differ from national averages, and that’s where a local agent shines.

If homes in your neighborhood are selling quickly with updated kitchens, your agent might advise you to prioritize kitchen improvements over other areas that won’t offer as high a return. They can also help you evaluate whether major projects, like replacing your roof or upgrading your HVAC system, are worth the investment based on recent sales in your area.

As one expert points out, “Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home's value is key.”

Small Details Matter Too

Don’t underestimate the power of small details! Your agent can guide you on minor touches that can enhance your home’s appeal. This could include:

• Yard Cleanup: Tidying up your yard and adding fresh mulch can create a welcoming environment.
• Fresh Decor: Consider staging your home with tasteful decor to help buyers envision themselves living there.
• Lighting: Make sure all light fixtures are clean and functional. Good lighting can make spaces feel larger and more inviting.

Bottom Line: Get Started Now!

If you’re considering selling your house in 2025, don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. Starting your prep work now ensures that everything is in place when the time comes.

Need advice on what to tackle first? Let’s connect! With a solid plan in place, you’ll be ready to make a successful sale and move on to your next adventure.