If selling your home is on your 2026 to-do list, there’s one thing you can do now that will make next spring feel a whole lot easier: start preparing early.
Spring is typically the most active season for real estate, which means more buyers, more energy, and—yes—more competition. Getting a head start now can make the difference between a smooth, confident sale and a rushed, stressful one.
Why “Later” Might Be Too Late
The homes that attract the most attention in today’s market are the ones that look well cared for and move-in ready. With more listings available than we’ve seen in years, buyers are being choosier. That’s why taking care of maintenance items and cosmetic touch-ups before you list is more important than ever.
Starting now doesn’t mean launching into a major remodel. It simply gives you the breathing room to tackle the right updates on your own timeline—without racing the clock or paying extra for last-minute contractor work.
A few examples: repainting your front door, fixing a leaky faucet, updating light fixtures, or finally taking care of that roof repair. By spacing these projects out over the coming months, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and give yourself the flexibility to do the work well.
Talk to a Local Expert Early
Every home and every market is different, which is why connecting with a local real estate professional early in the process is key. A good agent can help you:
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Identify which repairs or updates actually make a difference in your neighborhood
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Prioritize projects that offer the highest return
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Recommend reliable local contractors
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Strategize your timing for listing and marketing your home
The earlier you bring your agent into the conversation, the more time you’ll have to make smart, targeted improvements that truly pay off when you’re ready to sell.
What’s Worth Updating?
According to research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the most common updates that help homes sell faster and for more include fresh interior paint, landscaping, flooring improvements, and light kitchen or bathroom refreshes.
But what’s “worth it” depends heavily on your local market. In some areas, minor updates may be all you need. In others—especially where there’s more competition—buyers might expect a little more polish. That’s where your agent’s insight is invaluable.
Bottom Line
If 2026 is the year you plan to sell, don’t wait until January to start thinking about it. By using the rest of this year to prepare, you’ll go into the market with confidence—organized, ready, and ahead of the curve.
Want to know which projects offer the best return in your neighborhood? Reach out to the Vano Maurry Team today or a personalized prep plan tailored to your home and your timeline.
Article content courtesy of Keeping Current Matters
