5 Things to Do Now to Get Your House Ready to Sell in the Spring Market

Spring is one of the best times to sell a home. If you’re thinking about listing your house this season, it will require a little planning and effort. The goal is to attract potential buyers and make a great first impression. Let’s explore five key steps to prepare your home for a successful sale.

1. Secure a real estate agent 

Your first step is to hire a real estate agent. They will help you put together a plan for getting your home on the market. 

If you don’t already have a real estate agent, start by asking family and friends for recommendations. Then search the internet for top producers in your area. Be sure to read plenty of reviews.

Once you have a shortlist of candidates, it’s a good idea to interview each agent. Let them tell you about their experience and ask them questions. By the end of the interviews, there is a good chance you’ll zero in on someone who is a good fit for you.

2. Determine the right list price

After you’ve chosen a real estate agent, the next step is to determine the right price for your home.  

Setting the right price is crucial. Price too high, and your home may sit on the market too long. You may also be competing with other listings that have more to offer for the money. Price too low, and you might leave money on the table. 

Your real estate agent will be an essential part of the process. They can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA). That analysis will show you what other similar homes have sold for in recent months and help you determine a competitive asking price for your listing.

3. Make necessary repairs

Before you list your home, make sure everything is in working order. Even small issues could discourage potential buyers, so make it a point to fix things before putting your home on the market.

Repair things like leaky faucets. You can replace the washers or call a plumber if necessary. If the walls are scratched or scuffed, do a quick touchup with matching paint. And check your HVAC and applicances. Potential buyers will expect to see that the HVAC system and all major appliances are functioning properly.

Bottom line, when there are signs that things aren’t in working order, it will diminish your home’s overall value. On the other hand, if your home is in great shape, it may make buyers feel they’re getting a great deal of value for their money.

4. Boost curb appeal

First impressions matter, and your home’s curb appeal is the first thing buyers will notice when they pull up. Make sure the exterior is welcoming and well-maintained. 

Here are some simple updates you can make:

Trim the grass, mow the lawn, and remove any weeds. If you have flower beds or window boxes, add some seasonal flowers for a pop of color.

Clean your driveway, gutters, and exterior walls to remove leaves, dirt, and grime. A pressure washer can work wonders.

Paint the front door if it’s looking dingy. A fresh coat of paint on your front door can make a surprisingly big difference. 

Add some outdoor lights or solar-powered lamps to enhance the home’s look for evening showings or drive-bys.

5. Declutter and stage

Buyers want to envision themselves in your space, and a clean and clutter-free home can help them do that. Spring cleaning is a must!

Go beyond the regular vacuuming and dusting. Clean carpets, wash windows, and wipe down baseboards and ceilings. Remove personal items like family photos, trophies, or collections. Pack up items you don’t use regularly to create an organized, roomy space. Buyers will likely even peek inside your closets and cabinets, so make sure they look neat and spacious.

Staging your home can help buyers visualize how they might use the space and make the home feel more inviting. Your real estate agent can recommend a professional stager or give you tips on how to do it yourself. And before an open house or showing, it’s always a good idea to put out a vase of fresh flowers or a few plants to make the home feel welcoming.

The spring market offers an excellent opportunity to sell your home — and a little prep work can go a long way. Finding the right real estate agent and getting your home ready to show will be well worth the effort in the long run. With the right preparation, you can make the most of this exciting selling season and get your home sold quickly and for a great price!