If your goal is to sell your house in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. Even though it might seem like there’s plenty of time between now and the new year, you should get a head start on any updates or repairs you want to make now. By starting your prep work early, you’ll give yourself plenty of time to get your house market-ready by the end of the year.
Why Starting Early Is Key
To get the best price and sell quickly, it’s important that your home looks its best. And that means it’s up to you to make the necessary repairs, declutter, and even consider updates that could add value as part of getting your house ready to list.
By starting now, you can tackle things one task at a time. Whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet, refreshing your landscaping, or painting a room, getting an early start gives you the flexibility to do the job right and with as little stress as possible. Because, if you wait to knock items off your list later on, they could quickly stack up and get overwhelming.
What Should You Focus On?
Feeling motivated to start chipping away at that to-do list, but not sure where to start? Here’s a look at the most common improvements other sellers are making today (Source: Zillow):
- Paint the interior of the home: 43%
- Improve the bathroom: 42%
- Improve the kitchen: 38%
- Landscape the yard: 35%
- Replace or repair carpet or flooring: 28%
- Paint the exterior of the home: 28%
- Replace or buy new appliances: 26%
- Replace or repair the roof: 22%
- Redecorate whole home or specific rooms: 20%
- Replace or buy new furnishings: 19%
- Other: 4%
The Importance of Working with Local Pros
And while that data gives you a starting point, it shouldn’t be seen as a comprehensive list. What buyers are looking for in your area might be different we can help you with our in-depth understanding of the local markets.
For example, if homes in your area are selling quickly with updated kitchens, we might suggest focusing on minor kitchen improvements rather than spending money on other areas that won’t offer as much return. We’ll also help you figure out if tackling larger projects, such as replacing your roof or upgrading your HVAC system, is worth it based on other recently sold homes. And remember, it’s not just big-ticket items that can have an impact. We’ll also speak to some of the smaller details – like cleaning up your yard, adding fresh mulch, or painting your front door – to make a real difference in how buyers feel about your home. This type of expert eye is crucial to help your house sell fast and for top dollar.